Nautilus Chronograph 5980R

The Nautilus is as iconic as it comes and the folks from Patek Philippe added a chronograph function and it was a hit.

For awhile, the Patek 5980 was the much sought after chronograph. Some dealers told me that it was selling above retail in the grey market! That is what a Patek does for you...

I like the Nautilus so when I had the opportunity to photograph one, I jumped at it.

The chronograph sub-dial is at the 6 o'clock and features a 60 minute and 12 hour indication.

Push buttons are also different from the other chronographs. Integrated "into" the case rather than two protruding push buttons. The crown is also signed.

Overall a nice piece but I still prefer the simpler 5711. And with a strap, thank you.

World Timer by Patek - The 5131R

Timepieces from the house of Patek Philippe is much sought after - what more a complication with a Cloisonné enamel dial.

The 5131R features a richly coloured dial in the centre featuring the map of Asia and the Americas.

Cloisonné enamel technique is a complicated technique and I described it in my other article where I featured the Vulcain Cricket Aviator GMT Dragon. Each enamelling step is precise and the colours have to be fired at the right temperature for the colour to shine through.

What's special about the 5131R is the fact that the enamel dial gives it the colour that most other world timers won't. And because it is done with the Cloisonné enamel technique, no two dials are identical. Similar, but not identical. And the shine of the dial, well that is another attraction.

The world timer features 24 time zones and comes with a day and night dial ring.

The push button at the 11 o'clock position adjusts the time zone indicator. Engraved on the case (above the 12 o'clock) is the brand - I wish they had not done so. The purity would have made the timepiece a lot more attractive.

Although the beauty of the enamel dial is undeniable, the words engraved in the case draws a curious look - and after awhile, you realised it states Geneve at the bottom.

Powering the timepiece is Calibre 240 HU which features a micro rotor and the Patek quality seal.

Expertly finished as one would expect of a timepiece from Patek.

There are a few more timepieces that feature a world timer like the Andersen Geneve piece but what makes the 5131R special is the fact that it features a Cloisonné enamel dial. But what spoilt it for me was the engraving on the case. One look and I would have known it is a Patek. So why?

Thanks to my friend who loaned me this for the shoot. Overall, a stunning piece in rose gold and with a colourful Cloisonné enamel dial.