PATEK PHILIPPE. A RARE AND ATTRACTIVE 18K PINK GOLD AND DIAMOND-SET LIMITED EDITION AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL DIAL

This incredibly beautiful pink gold reference 5077 set with diamonds was made in a limited edition and is a true work of art, however, its rarity is due to the stunning hand-crafted enamel dial depicting a Chinese tree peony. The peony flower has great symbolic importance, by their form, aspect, and fragrance, they are considered to be highly spiritual, reflecting the profound nature of the Chinese people. Poems and proverbs show the importance of flowers in the culture: "There is no flower without beauty in the world"; "A flower gives us a glimpse of paradise". Using the technique of Grand Feu cloisonné enamel to convey the tonal beauty of the Chinese peony, the artist has created the outlines by arranging thin gold wires on the gold dial plate. The partitions, called "cloisons” in French, were filled with small quantities of enamel powder in the desired colour. The dial was then fired in a furnace at around 1000 degrees Celsius causing the powder to melt. Finally it was hand-polished until obtaining a perfectly flat glass-like surface. The creation of each dial requires up to 7 firings, using 7 to 10 different enamel colours. It would take one of Patek Philippe’s master enamellists approximately 7 days of work to create such an individual works of art.
Patek Philippe’s rare handicrafts division is dedicated to the preservation of the eclectic artisanal skills that have been associated with horology for over 400 years. The continuing use of these precious techniques in modern watchmaking contributes to their survival whilst at the same time delighting and impressing collectors and connoisseurs. The resplendent watch offered here pays tribute to Patek Philippe’s devotion to keeping these ancient crafts alive and demonstrates the mastery of techniques and subjects that enhance and enrich Patek Philippe’s enduring appeal and reputation for excellence in all aspects of watchmaking.
The wristwatches with rare handicrafts cloisonné enamel dials, always made in very small editions are now eagerly awaited as iconic and highly collectable horological works of art.