Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Pagoda 40930060/AS05533

Why We Love It

Patek Philippe certainly has a flair for the theatrical.

In 1997, the world-renowned firm released a special, limited-edition watch to commemorate the opening of its new watchmaking facilities in Geneva. Constructed with a flared rectangular case in the form of a multi-tiered tower with eaves, it was dubbed the “Pagoda,” and given the reference number 5500. Only 2,000 pieces were made — 1,100 in yellow gold, 500 in pink gold, 250 in white gold and 150 in platinum. Then, to ensure its worldwide collector base that no further Pagodas would be introduced into the market, the company promptly destroyed the model’s case molds.

This particular Pagoda — a 5500R, for rose gold — is one of the finest we’ve ever come across. Featuring a gorgeous non-luminous, silver satin dial with applied Roman indices and red gold feuille handset, it’s a watch exuding pure elegance. Other features include an 18mm x 41mm 18K rose gold case, sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and the in-house Calibre 215, manually-wound movement. But that’s not all: This ref. 5500R also ships with a blue Patek Philippe alligator strap with 18K rose gold pin buckle, and includes its original inner and outer boxes, books, attestation papers, certificate of origin from 1997 and COSC papers. 

If what you’re after is a modern Patek with the aesthetics of a 1940s vintage classic, look no further — this is the watch for you.

The Patek Philippe Story

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few international luxury brands carry the gravitas of their name, and for good reason. The firm's commitment to excellence in horological manufacture is unflinching, and their track record of innovation in design without peer. They continue to lead the industry, and even their fiercest competitors have nothing but the utmost respect for the company.

From the simple elegance of their Calatrava line to the stunning study in miniaturization that is reference 1518 perpetual calendar to the modern reference 5750P chiming watch, Patek’s catalog is chock full of some of the most elegant and complicated timepieces ever made. Family-owned and completely independent, the firm has the freedom to do what it wants — such as discontinue one of the world’s most beloved steel luxury sport watches, the reference 5711 — when it wants.

Owning a Patek Philippe is for many the ultimate goal of timepiece collecting, and for a certain type, the only timepieces they collect. Whichever way you look at it, there is no questioning the elegance of design, superlative manufacture of their cases and movements, or the sheer elegance and emotion that comes from owning one. 

Of course for a brand that is steeped in heritage, we are told “You never actually own a Patek Philippe…”

Well, you know the rest.