Patek Philippe is renowned for its intricate chronographs, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters. However, the brand also offers complex timepieces with practical features suited for daily use. Here, we highlight four such models from the WatchTime archives.
1. SECOND TIME ZONE: CALATRAVA PILOT TRAVEL TIME REFERENCE 5524G
Patek Philippe Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Ref. 5524G
For frequent travelers, the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Reference 5524G offers an invaluable time-zone function. Launched in 2015, this watch features day-night indicators for both home and local time, ensuring you’re always aware of the correct time no matter where you are. The date is elegantly displayed on a large subdial, adding to its symmetrical aesthetic. The 42-mm gold case houses the finely decorated self-winding Caliber 324 S C FUS, blending luxury with functionality. Priced at $47,630, this sporty pilot watch is as practical as it is stylish.
2. WORLD-TIME DISPLAY: WORLD-TIME WATCH REFERENCE 5230G
Patek Philippe World Time Watch Ref. 5230G
Ideal for globetrotters, the World-Time Watch Reference 5230G displays time across multiple zones simultaneously. Originating in 1937, this model has evolved through numerous styles. The latest version features a 38.5-mm case available in white or rose gold, with angular hands rotating above a guilloché-embellished, anthracite dial. Setting the watch is intuitive: pressing the push-piece at 10 o’clock aligns the desired time zone with the top of the dial, adjusting the 24-hour ring and hour hand accordingly. Powered by the automatic Caliber 240 HU, this watch, priced at $47,630, is perfect for those needing to keep track of various global times.
3. ANNUAL CALENDAR: REFERENCE 5396G
Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Ref. 5396G
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of its annual calendar invention, Patek Philippe introduced the Reference 5396G in 2016. This complication adjusts for the varying lengths of 11 months but requires a manual correction in February. The 38.5-mm watch features indicators for the date, day, and month, alongside a moon-phase display and 24-hour indicator at 6 o’clock. Available in white gold with a gray dial or rose gold with a silvery white face, it houses the self-winding Caliber 324 S QA LU 24H/303. This elegant timepiece retails for $47,970.
4. CHRONOGRAPH: REFERENCE 5170R
Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5170R
For those who need a chronograph to time activities such as marathons or travel, the Reference 5170R is an excellent choice. Featuring the hand-wound Caliber CH 29-535 PS, Patek Philippe’s first in-house, serially produced chronograph movement, this model was initially introduced in 2009. The 39.4-mm case comes in various versions, including rose gold with black or silver dials. The sleek design includes subdials positioned just below the dial’s centerline. Patek Philippe also offers more complex chronographs with additional functions. This sophisticated watch is priced at $81,080.
