2006 Patek Philippe Gondolo Calendario Moonphase 18K YG (Ref. 5135J) W/ Box & Papers

You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.’ — Patek Philippe started this now ubiquitous marketing campaign in 1966 and never looked back, though they already had an outstanding legacy since the watchmaker was founded in the year 1839. Patek built its reputation on several foundational pillars: tradition, innovation, and excellence, all of which are paramount in every timepiece they make, both old and new.

The Gondolo line of wristwatches stems from a business relationship between Patek Philippe and Gondolo & Labouriau dating all the way back to 1872. Gondolo & Labouriau was a world-renowned jeweler based out of Rio de Janeiro during Brazil's economic boom of the 19th century through the early 20th century. Gondolo & Labouriau were in fact so successful at selling Patek Philippe watches, they accounted for more than a third of Patek sales worldwide during the two brands' partnership. The Gondolo line exists today as a celebration of this relationship, though Gondolo & Labouriau are no longer around. The watches under the Gondolo line cater to the fashionable enthusiast of wristwatches, with these unique designs being primarily cast in geometrical shapes with noble metals.

The Patek Philippe Gondolo Calendario ref. 5135J is large, well-equipped, and impressive. Employing the complicated cal. 324 S QA LU 24H/205 movement that features an automatic winding system, full calendar, moon phase, and a dedicated 24hr indicator, so it's no wonder why this movement is also adorned with the Geneve seal. The 18K tonneau-style case measures a whopping 51mm from lug to lug and 39mm across, this large size allows for a dial that can display a lot of information without being visually busy. Despite its size the Gondolo Calendario ref. 5135J remains extremely elegant and sophisticated in classic Patek Philippe fashion.