Patek Philippe

Throughout its storied history, Patek Philippe has been at the forefront of innovation in world-time wristwatches. Beginning with reference 96HU, and subsequently the iconic references 1415HU and 2523HU, the Maison was the first to incorporate Louis Cottier’s world time complication into a wristwatch format. This pioneering spirit earned Patek Philippe an enduring reputation for crafting exceptional timepieces bearing the title Heures Universelles—or Universal Hours.

Building on this revered lineage, reference 5531R represents a groundbreaking advancement in horological design: it is the first wristwatch ever to combine a minute repeater with a world time function in a fully integrated movement. Released in 2017 to commemorate The Art of Watches Grand Exhibition in New York, the initial ten examples were fitted with cloisonné enamel dials by renowned artist Anita Porchet, depicting the New York skyline in both day and night.

Due to its success, the reference was subsequently added to the regular collection in 2018, with later editions showcasing other cloisonné enamel motifs, including maps of Geneva, Singapore, Tokyo, and—as in the current example—the tranquil beauty of Lake Geneva adorned with a sailboat.

At its heart lies the caliber R 27 HU, a movement developed specifically for the reference. Unlike traditional minute repeaters, which chime the time indicated on the main hands regardless of world time setting, the 5531R is capable of chiming the local time displayed at 12 o’clock on the world time dial. This exceptional technical innovation allows for seamless synchrony between the two complications—an extraordinary achievement unique to Patek Philippe.

Equally innovative is the repeater mechanism’s construction. In a first for the brand, the repeater gongs are attached to the case band rather than the movement plate, greatly enhancing the richness and clarity of the chime—albeit requiring a more complex adjustment process during assembly. The result is a strikingly sonorous tone that sets the 5531R apart even among Patek Philippe’s most refined creations.

The watch’s presence is matched by its bold 42 mm rose gold case, elegantly detailed with Clous de Paris guilloché engraving along the case band, repeater slide, and world time pusher. Skeletonized lugs lend dramatic flair while showcasing the intricate case finishing from all angles.

With production concluded in 2023, reference 5531R remains one of the most technically accomplished and aesthetically captivating modern grand complications ever produced by Patek Philippe—a true testament to the Maison’s continued innovation and mastery.