PATEK PHILIPPE | CALATRAVA, REF.5077P-058, A RARE PLATINUM WRISTWATCH WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL DIAL, CIRCA 2010

Footnotes

When discussing the art of enameling in timepieces, Patek Philippe is often the first name that comes to mind. Since the 17th century, enameling has been in high demand to adorn watchcases and dials. Despite being considered an exceedingly rare craft today, Patek Philippe continues this tradition with remarkable skill. Enameling requires concentration, attention to detail and artisanal craftsmanship. The enamel substance itself is incredibly challenging to work with. Derived from silica sand, enamel is transparent and gains color through metal oxides crushed into fine powder and mixed with water to create a paste. Once applied to the surface and dried, it undergoes a high-temperature firing process in a kiln, reaching temperatures of almost 850°C. Even the slightest imperfection during this heating process necessitates redoing the dial until perfection is attained, and the dial is rigorously checked before it can be encased.

A notable example of this incredible art form by the maison is Reference 5077P-058, introduced at Baselworld 2010. This timepiece features a stunning polychrome cloisonné enamel dial depicting a motif of Native American Indians of the Great Plains. The dial showcases a Native American Indian on horseback galloping through desert plains, with vibrant colors filling in the intricate details of this beautiful and delicate design, with hands that are styled with inspiration from Indian feathers thus increasing the effect of the motif throughout the timepiece. The current lot, in excellent condition and featuring it full suite of accessories the culmination of the cloisonné enamel process by Patek Philippe and is great opportunity for collectors to add this exceedingly rare and beautiful example to their collections.