Alright, let’s talk about this project I’ve been working on. It’s a remake of the Patek Philippe Calatrava 5088/100P-001, and I must say, it’s been quite a journey.
First off, I started by gathering as much information as I could about the original watch. I found out that the retail price of this beauty is around $105,820, but you can get it on the pre-owned market for about $83,837. If you go through a secondary market dealer, expect to pay a bit more, like 6% or so.
Knowing this was a current production model, I needed to be careful with my remake. I looked at the watch’s features, like its hand-engraved and enameled dial. The Calatrava cross, a symbol Patek Philippe has used since the late 19th century, was another important detail. It’s not just a design; it represents perfection and mastery.
Sourcing the Materials
The original is made of platinum, and the dial is hand-engraved with these intricate arabesques and volutes. I had to find similar materials that wouldn’t break the bank but still look good. Finding a good engraver was also tough. I went through several before I found someone who could really capture the essence of the original design. I watched them work, and it’s really an art form.
The Movement
The movement is automatic, which is pretty standard for these types of watches. I had to make sure I got this right because it’s a big part of what makes a Patek Philippe a Patek Philippe. I spent hours studying the mechanics and even took apart a few movements to get a better understanding. It was like solving a complex puzzle, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
Putting It All Together
Once I had all the parts, the real work began. I assembled the watch piece by piece, making sure everything fit perfectly. This was the most nerve-wracking part because one small mistake could ruin the whole thing. I took my time, double-checking every step. It was a slow process, but I wanted to get it right.
The Final Product
After weeks of work, the watch was finally finished. I compared it to pictures of the original, and I was pretty happy with how it turned out. It’s not an exact replica, but it captures the spirit of the original. The engraving looks great, the movement works smoothly, and the overall feel is just right.
This project was a real labor of love. It taught me a lot about watchmaking, and I gained a new appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into these high-end timepieces. Would I do it again? Absolutely. But maybe next time, I’ll pick a simpler model.
- Started with research, found out the price and key features.
- Sourced materials and found a skilled engraver.
- Studied the movement and assembled the watch.
- Compared the final product with the original, happy with the result.
- Learned a lot and gained a new appreciation for watchmaking.
So, there you have it. My journey of remaking the Patek Philippe Calatrava 5088/100P-001. It was challenging, but definitely worth it. Hope you enjoyed hearing about it!
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