Patek Philippe Neptune

Patek Philippe made a fantastic, stainless steel sports watch — and we're not talking about the Aquanaut or the Nautilus.    The Neptune has been long under-appreciated since its debut in 1996 alongside the Aquanaut. Both pieces served as alternatives to the popular Nautilus and were meant to inject some life and energy to the the maison's sports watch collection. The Neptune stood on its own unique design language with its round case equipped with crown guards, svelte proportions, and an excellent integrated multi-link bracelet.   This piece, a Reference 5080/1A, features a 36mm stainless steel case with signature crown guards, a signed crown, a sapphire crystal, and a stunning fluted bezel with polished hour markers. The copper-hued dial features applied 'Roman' indices; a date indicator at 3 o'clock, luminous feuille handset, and a central chemin de fer minute track.   Powered by a self-winding Patek Philippe Calibre, this piece features a stainless steel integrated bracelet with matching finishing and a signed locking deployant clasp.    Recognizable across the room only to those who know its distinguishable integrated bracelet design, this unusual, complicated neo-vintage design from Patek is perfect for the discerning collector who wants a truly special piece — one that flies well under the radar and offers a tremendous value.