Patek Philippe World Time Reference 5131/1P, a platinum automatic wristwatch with world time and cloisonné enamel dia

One of Patek Philippe’s most coveted wristwatches, the world time with cloisonné enamel dial is easily the best illustration of their artisanship in fine watchmaking. While reminiscent to the legendary reference 1415, the white gold reference 5131 was launched in 2009 and in production for only two short years. With only two to three enamelists capable to produce these masterpieces by hand, less than 40 world time cloisonné enamel dials were made each year across all metals.

The difficulty of manufacturing these works of art cannot be overstated given the nature of the enameling process. Utterly thin gold wires were used to outline the continents and only a handful few could be heated perfectly without cracking whilst meeting the color standard by Patek. Surely a joy to look at, the present dial depicts four continents: Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania, and unlike its successor reference, the Patek Philippe signature was engraved to the bezel without blocking view of the beautiful enamel dial. The scarce production of cloisonné enamel dials made long waiting lists at the boutique, making an excellent opportunity not to be missed to acquire this horological marvel.