PATEK PHILIPPE. A PLATINUM AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH WITH BLACK CHAMPLEVE ENAMEL DIAL

Part of the Rare Handcrafts collection of Patek Philippe, the 5088-100P was launched in 2016 and produced in very limited amount. Showcasing the skills of the manufacture’s watchmakers, the timepiece is assembled with a Calatrava platinum case and pays tribute to both enameling and engraving.

The art of enameling was adopted by watchmakers during the seventeenth century, in order to enhance the aesthetical appeal of timepieces. Transforming them into genuine works of art, the enameling process commanded the upmost discipline from watchmakers, as multiple steps are required for dials to be successfully completed. Out of the various techniques, Champlevé enamel, used on the present timepiece, requires the artist to outline the design on gold plates and carve into the dial the outlines, which are then filled with enamel. The piece is then fired until the enamel melts.

Fresh to the market and offered for the first time at auction with this dial configuration, the reference 5088-100P is available only through the Patek Philippe Geneva boutique.