Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5531R-012 Watch

The Grand Complications collection from Patek Philippe showcases the superb artistry and skill of the true masters of horological complications. Since 1839, Patek Philippe have focused on showcasing the most complicated wristwatches, which embody an individual and distinguished elegance. First seen in an incredibly small limited edition that was produced in 2017 to commemorate the Watch Art Grand Exhibition in New York, the 5531R-012 (Lavaux landscape) joined the current collection in 2018. This exceptional piece perfectly combines fine watchmaking and the music of time with exquisite artisanal cloisonné enamelwork. Invented by Louis Cottier in 1931, patents for the first Patek Philippe World Time were registered in 1959. This marvellous complication displays 24 locations, each representing one time zone. Local time for each city is displayed at 12:00, and can be easily selected with a pusher at 10:00. A minute repeater function can be activated by a case slide, and will strike the hours, quarter-hours and minutes of the selected local time for the time zone displayed at 12:00. The centrepiece of this beautiful piece is a delicate cloisonné enamel depiction of the picturesque Lavaux vineyards, which stretch along the south-facing northern shores of Lake Geneva. Minute cloisonné enamelwork is a speciality of Patek Philippe, with various examples being featured in rare artisanal releases in April each year. Completely handmade by master craftspeople, each dial features slightly different colour tones and combinations. Showcasing superb attention to detail, the 5531R-012 displays the highest level of skills and craftsmanship.
Available on an application only basis, the audible chimes of each individual 5531R-012 are listened to by the company president, Mr Thierry Stern, before leaving the manufacture in Geneva to ensure they sound exactly right.