Patek Philippe Pagoda

Patek Philippe certainly has a flair for the theatrical. In 1997, the world-renowned firm released a special, limited-edition watch to commemorate the opening of its new watchmaking facilities in Geneva. Constructed with a flared rectangular case in the form of a multi-tiered tower with eaves, it was dubbed the “Pagoda,” and given the reference number 5500. Only 2,000 pieces were made — 1,100 in yellow gold, 500 in pink gold, 250 in white gold and 150 in platinum. Then, to ensure its worldwide collector base that no further Pagodas would be introduced into the market, the company promptly destroyed the model’s case molds. This particular Pagoda — a 5500R, for rose gold — is one of the finest we’ve ever come across. Featuring a gorgeous non-luminous, silver satin dial with applied Roman indices and red gold feuille handset, it’s a watch exuding pure elegance. Other features include an 18mm x 41mm 18K rose gold case, sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and the in-house Calibre 215, manually-wound movement. But that’s not all: This ref. 5500R also ships with a blue Patek Philippe alligator strap with 18K rose gold pin buckle, and includes its original inner and outer boxes, books, attestation papers, certificate of origin from 1997 and COSC papers.  If what you’re after is a modern Patek with the aesthetics of a 1940s vintage classic, look no further — this is the watch for you.