Celebrating the Watch Art Grand Exhibition Singapore 2019, Patek Philippe is showcasing some very nice timepieces that include the Aquanaut Singapore 2019, Aquanaut Luce Singapore 2019, Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Singapore 2019 and World Time Chronograph Singapore 2019. Amongst these many watches showcased, the Minute Repeater Tourbillon Singapore 2019 Ref. 5303R-010, is one of the most complicated watches.
The Singapore event is a haven for watch collectors, and Patek Philippe is hoping to capitalize intrigue and pre-sell the limited dozen that it has earmarked for this particular timepiece. The first thing that captures your attention is the red highlights the watch has. Outermost track, the stitch on the strap and the subdial hand.
Under The Hood of the Minute Repeater Tourbillon
To think of the Minute Repeater Tourbillon Singapore 2019 as an Aquanaut with a red strap, will not be fair, as there are some new elements to the watch. Under the hood is the caliber R TO 27 PS. This movement is based on the caliber R 27 and has been worked upon to showcase the tourbillon.
The interesting part is that the tourbillon is seen on the dial side of the watch – at 6 o’clock spot. Typically, Patek Philippe showcases the tourbillion on the backside. The minute repeater mechanics can be viewed properly and indicates a new design. Highlighted on the caseback are the words “PATEK PHILLIPE, SINGAPORE 2019”, which is laser engraved on the sapphire crystal.
Designed for Success
As a Limited Edition, the twelve timepieces are expected to be in high demand, and I can see why the perception of this timepiece not being just an Aquanaut with a red strap, is justified. Through the sapphire dial we get to admire the movement and the black color hands for reading the time, are a contrast, but add to the legibility.
The skeletonized dial gives a great view of what to expect from this watch. Details like the red flange, printed hour and minute track with stars for the hours, add to the charm of reminding us that this a timepiece for Singapore (cues from Singapore’s Flag). Details include a running 60-seconds hand for the tourbillon, black alligator leather strap with bright red contrast stitching and UV coated sapphire dial to protect the movement from sunlight.
Sporting an 18K, 42 mm solid rose gold case, Patek Philippe will retail the watch for $595,000.