Patek Philippe Recreates its Legendary Watch
In the period of 1900-1928 Patek Philippe was involved into the production of watches exclusively for the Gondolo and Labouriau jewelry store located in Rio de Janeiro. Over time, the Chronometro Gondolo pocket watches have become highly demanded among watch collectors. They have been valued for their top quality and high precision mechanisms.
In 1910 the company developed the first Gondolo wristwatches with square, rectangular, tonneau, and cushion-shaped cases distinguished due to their variety and beauty of designs that inspired watchmakers of other brands. Brazilians were so deeply impressed by the creations of the Geneva watchmaker that the word 'Patek' became synonymous to a 'watch', no matter whether it was a the brand's timepiece or not.
In 2007 Patek Philippe opened a new page in the history of the Gondolo watches, having introduced the new Chronometro Gondolo Reference 5098 P. The two zones of the dial reveal a delicate guilloche. Between the zones there is an oval minutes circle featuring black lacquer Breguet numerals.
The Chronometro Gondolo case features a classic tonneau shape, the most delicate and sophisticated to design and develop. However, the Patek Philippe watchmakers managed to create the timepiece with the case based upon the perfect equilibrium interpreted in a really subtle manner. The case of the timepiece measures 32 by 42 mm in diameter. Crafted in platinum, it features elegant curves and transparent back. The watch's slightly curved profile provides special comfort of wearing.
The sapphire crystal and crystal case back represent a considerable feat of watchmaking especially if to take into account the shape of the case and the hardness of sapphire. The brand's watchmakers used advanced technology to integrate the crystals into the case. They wanted the case to surprise not only by its aesthetic perfectness but also be reliably protected. The Gondolo Chronometro is water-resistant to 3 ATM.
The new Gondolo is based upon the model that appeared back in 1920 bearing the movement number 180782. At that time Patek Philippe watchmakers applied a round, gold-plated 12-ligne caliber and specially-devised fine adjustment mechanism for the index. As for the movement blank, it has been supplied by Jaeger LeCoultre.
The new version of the Chronometro Gondolo is powered by a 2521 REC, a completely new hand-wound movement, the reliability of which is guaranteed by the prestigious Geneva Quality Hallmark. The mechanism comprises Gyromax balance and free-sprung balance.
The overall look of the Patek Philippe Chronometro Gondolo watch is completed by mat black alligator leather strap with large scales, equipped with a platinum tongued buckle.