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Photo: Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe has long been a trusted companion for globe-trotting travellers, with a legacy deeply rooted in the development of timepieces that embrace the changing landscape of transcontinental travel. Since the establishment of time zones at the end of the 19th century, the Swiss manufacture has been at the forefront of creating innovative watches to keep up with the demands of jetsetters.
Its World Time watch, introduced in the 1930s, came equipped with a date display synchronised with local time. By the late 1950s, the brand launched its first dual time zone Travel Time system, which has since evolved into an essential feature of many Patek Philippe watches across different designs. Three new iterations of this celebrated complication now offer fresh takes on both aesthetic and functional sophistication.
Alarm Travel Time Reference 5520RG-001
A new iteration of the Alarm Travel Time, originally launched in 2019, this 42.2mm model is the epitome of refined jetset style. The Alarm Travel Time Reference 5520RG-001 pairs elegance with utility, boasting a two-tone case in rose gold with white gold pusher tubes, and a grey sunburst dial accentuated by charcoal-grey details. The applied Arabic numerals and sword-shaped hands, rendered in charcoal-grey white gold, are luminescent for maximum legibility.
At its core lies the self-winding caliber AL 30-660 S C FUS, a movement protected by four patents. This grand complication ingeniously merges the brand’s exclusive Travel Time dual-time display with a 24-hour alarm mechanism. A hammer strikes a classic gong for the alarm, further highlighting the watch’s dedication to both form and function. This model joins its platinum sibling, Reference 5520P-001, in Patek Philippe’s celebrated collection of grand complications.
Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5164G-001
The Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5164G-001 blends sporty chic with contemporary sophistication. Making its debut in white gold, this 40.8mm version features an opaline blue-grey dial embossed with the iconic Aquanaut pattern. The dial is beautifully matched by an integrated composite strap, which also carries the same subtle yet elegant hue.
Beneath the surface, the timepiece is powered by the caliber 26-330 S C FUS. This self-winding movement is distinguished by its system of displaying a second time zone, which combines excellent legibility with ease of operation. One only needs to press on one of the two pushers to advance or move back the solid local-hour hand in one-hour steps, without any effect on the watch’s rate accuracy. The date indication by a hand on the subsidiary dial at 6 o’clock is based on the local time.
Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5269R-001
In a new take on a classic design, Patek Philippe introduces the Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5269R-001 in rose gold, devoid of gem-set embellishments but exuding understated elegance. This 38.8mm travel watch is powered by an exclusive quartz movement that incorporates the brand’s Travel Time complication, with a practical and discreet crown-operated setting system.
The opaline blue-grey dial, adorned with the familiar Aquanaut pattern, harmonises with the matching composite strap featuring a patented fold-over clasp with four independent safety catches. Together with the case’s contrasting polished and satin-brushed finishes, security and style are both assured, making it perfect as a his-and-her timepiece.
