Patek Philippe

While Patek Philippe has always been known for its highly complicated horology wristwatches and pocket watches that are encased with the most elegant designs, the Maison was equally an advocate in the field of photoelectric, electronic, and nuclear timekeeping since 1948. At the time when stable electricity was not granted to the general public, Patek Philippe was determined to discover a system that can convert light into potential energy for powering horological devices. This had led to the ground-breaking invention of the manual caliber 17-250, a movement which harnesses solar panels and accumulators to power a mechanical clock like the Dome clock.

While Dome clocks are often not as well-known as some of Patek Philippe’s wristwatches, they are one of the most collectible products of Patek Philippe. Characterized by their cylindrical form, spherical top and often found finely decorated with traditional artisanal techniques such as cloisonné enamels, each clock is unique by its own ornamentations.

Given the theme “Rose garden”, the present Dome clock features a dome and three horizontal polychrome cloisonné enamel panels that are romantically decorated with pink roses, green leaves on a lighter green background. The poetic charm of the theme is translated in the render of the flowers, gracefully complemented by large blue and smaller red arabesques providing a rhythm and the energy to the composition. The quality of the work is breathtaking, with each detail combining several shades of colours that were applied by hand. The dial is purple, an elegant choice combining the two dominant tones, the red and the blue, to give to the ensemble an homogeneous aesthetic. Furthermore, the elegance of the present lot is enhanced by the Breguet hands and numerals.

Complete with accessories and in stunning condition, the present Dome Clock is undoubtedly a masterwork of art.