Timepiece For the Ages

T he 5531R-010 World Time Minute Repeater has a rich and resplendent history reflecting that of its illustrious makers. Released in 2017 to celebrate The Art of Watches Grand Exhibition – Swiss watchmakers Patek Philippe’s 10-day New York retrospective of works old and new – it arrived as one of 10 examples created with grand feu cloisonné enamel dials. These dials, designed by renowned enameler Anita Porchet, depicted two versions of New York’s iconic skyline in day and night time colours.

A gold watch with a leather strap on a wooden box

In its every detail and mechanism the 5531R honours Patek Philippe’s reputation for excellence and innovation. It marks, for example, the manufacturer's first instance of attaching the repeater mallets to the case band instead of the movement plate, producing a more resistant and pronounced tone.

On offer from one of the most important private collections in the US, and in like-new condition complete with all its accessories, this is a rare and state-of-the-art timepiece that would be at home in any collection.

1. Minute by minute

The 5531R enhances the traditional world time wristwatch with the addition of a full integrated minute repeater, the slide for which is at the nine o’clock position.

2. International view

The 5531R’s city disk features compartments that elegantly separate out each of the world’s 24 time zones.

3. Bespoke dial

This example of the 5531R is fitted with a cloisonné enamel dial depicting the New York skyline by day.

4. Elegant casing

The watch is cased in a refined pink gold, which is a blend of pure 24-karat yellow gold and copper and silver alloys. This makes it both striking and durable.

5. Groundbreaking movement

The watch’s movement, Caliber R27 HU, was the first of its kind capable of chiming a local time, set using the pusher at the two o’clock position on the side of the case.