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Lot Essay
This superb automatic white gold reference 5089-023 ‘Escalade 3’ is one of a limited edition of ten sets of three watches. It is particularly significant to collectors because these cloisonné enamel dial timepieces were made as part of the special pieces that commemorate the 175th anniversary of Patek Philippe in 2014. The sapphire-crystal back is enclosed by a hinged dust cover engraved: “PATEK PHILIPPE GENEVE 175e Anniversaire 1839-2014”.
Naturally as part of the magnificent Champion Collection, the present watch is offered in pristine like new condition with the full set of accessories. A truly historic and exclusive trophy for those who appreciate the breathtaking skills of Patek Philippe’s rare handicrafts department.
The story behind the three limited edition wristwatches of the ‘Escalade’ series is the historic night in 1602, when the people of Geneva repelled an attack by the Duke of Savoy. The feast is celebrated every 12th December, on the anniversary of the republic’s victory and is known as ‘l’Escalade’. The name comes from the Savoyards’ attempt to invade Geneva by climbing (‘escalader’) the walls of the city on wooden ladders in the middle of a cold winter night. There was fierce fighting as the Swiss inhabitants, struggling to defend their political and religious freedom, repelled the invaders, many of whom were mercenaries. In Geneva, hot vegetable soup is served during the ‘Escalade’ festivities; pudding is a chocolate cauldron filled with sweets wrapped in red and yellow, the colours of Geneva, and little marzipan vegetables. It is smashed ceremonially with the following words being repeated by all: ‘Ainsi périrent les ennemis de la République!’, ‘Thus the enemies of the Republic perished!’.
The stunning ‘Escalade’ series features cloisonné enamel dials on a hand-engraved background and are true works of art. The dials each required between 15 and 28 enamel colours, and between 12 and 20 firings around 800°C. The platinum case has a diameter of 38.6 mm. and houses the famous Patek Philippe caliber 240 automatic movement.
Patek Philippe’s rare handicrafts division is dedicated to the preservation of the eclectic artisanal skills that have been associated with horology for over 400 years. The continuing use of these precious techniques in modern watchmaking contributes to their survival whilst at the same time delighting and impressing collectors and connoisseurs. The resplendent watch offered here pays tribute to Patek Philippe’s devotion to keeping these ancient crafts alive and demonstrates the mastery of techniques and subjects that enhance and enrich Patek Philippe’s enduring appeal and reputation for excellence in all aspects of watchmaking.
The wristwatches with rare handicrafts cloisonné enamel dials, always made in very small editions are now eagerly awaited as iconic and highly collectable horological works of art.
This specific reference 5077 is illustrated in the 'Blue Book 5', 2021 edition by Eric Tortella, p. 295.
Naturally as part of the magnificent Champion Collection, the present watch is offered in pristine like new condition with the full set of accessories. A truly historic and exclusive trophy for those who appreciate the breathtaking skills of Patek Philippe’s rare handicrafts department.
The story behind the three limited edition wristwatches of the ‘Escalade’ series is the historic night in 1602, when the people of Geneva repelled an attack by the Duke of Savoy. The feast is celebrated every 12th December, on the anniversary of the republic’s victory and is known as ‘l’Escalade’. The name comes from the Savoyards’ attempt to invade Geneva by climbing (‘escalader’) the walls of the city on wooden ladders in the middle of a cold winter night. There was fierce fighting as the Swiss inhabitants, struggling to defend their political and religious freedom, repelled the invaders, many of whom were mercenaries. In Geneva, hot vegetable soup is served during the ‘Escalade’ festivities; pudding is a chocolate cauldron filled with sweets wrapped in red and yellow, the colours of Geneva, and little marzipan vegetables. It is smashed ceremonially with the following words being repeated by all: ‘Ainsi périrent les ennemis de la République!’, ‘Thus the enemies of the Republic perished!’.
The stunning ‘Escalade’ series features cloisonné enamel dials on a hand-engraved background and are true works of art. The dials each required between 15 and 28 enamel colours, and between 12 and 20 firings around 800°C. The platinum case has a diameter of 38.6 mm. and houses the famous Patek Philippe caliber 240 automatic movement.
Patek Philippe’s rare handicrafts division is dedicated to the preservation of the eclectic artisanal skills that have been associated with horology for over 400 years. The continuing use of these precious techniques in modern watchmaking contributes to their survival whilst at the same time delighting and impressing collectors and connoisseurs. The resplendent watch offered here pays tribute to Patek Philippe’s devotion to keeping these ancient crafts alive and demonstrates the mastery of techniques and subjects that enhance and enrich Patek Philippe’s enduring appeal and reputation for excellence in all aspects of watchmaking.
The wristwatches with rare handicrafts cloisonné enamel dials, always made in very small editions are now eagerly awaited as iconic and highly collectable horological works of art.
This specific reference 5077 is illustrated in the 'Blue Book 5', 2021 edition by Eric Tortella, p. 295.