Patek Philippe has long captivated collectors with its unmatched technical innovation and mechanical artistry. In 2017, the release of the reference 5531R combined two of the brand’s most extraordinary complications: the world-time and minute repeater. The Ref. 5531R, renowned for its rarity and innovation, is the first-ever minute repeater that always chimes the local time. Recently discontinued and succeeded by a white-gold version, this particular pink gold model, the ref. 5531R-015, featuring an exquisite cloisonné enamel map of Geneva, is one of only ten ever crafted. Upon closer inspection, a discreet ‘A.P.’ signature reveals itself, subtly nestled within one of the streets—an unmistakable mark of the cloisonné artistry crafted by the renowned Anita Porchet atelier, a name cherished by discerning connoisseurs worldwide. Underscoring its significance, a second example of the ref. 5531R-015 graces the front cover of Fabienne Reybaud’s acclaimed book Patek Philippe: The Impossible Collection, published by Assouline.
The 5531R embodies the pinnacle of Patek Philippe’s centuries-old horological prowess. Its world-time mechanism traces back to the 1930s, when renowned watchmaker Louis Cottier developed it during the rise of intercontinental travel. Patek Philippe’s first world-time production model, reference 1415, introduced a 31mm case with a revolutionary rotating bezel, making time zone adjustments effortless. This was followed by the landmark reference 2523, with its larger 36mm case and two-crown system. On rare occasions, select examples of these historic models featured cloisonné enamel dials with intricate maps, inspiring the design of the modern 5531R.
At the heart of this masterpiece is the in-house caliber R27 HU, first unveiled in 1989 for the brand’s 150th anniversary. The 5531’s movement builds on this foundation, incorporating the minute repeater into a design only 8.5mm thick, resulting in a remarkably sleek profile. Perhaps its most impressive feat is its ability to chime the local time of the city at 12 o'clock—achieved through an ingenious hour snail driven by the world-time mechanism. Moreover, pink gold is often regarded as the ideal metal for producing the warmest and most resonant chimes, and in the case of the 5531R, it beautifully enhances the depth and richness of the minute repeater's sound.
Fresh-to-the-market and making its debut at an international auction, the present World Time Minute Repeater is offered in as new condition - a true Patek Philippe masterpiece combining ultimate rarity, sublime aesthetics, and exquisite complications.
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