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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Patek Philippe Unveils New Timepieces, Honoring Legacy of Quiet Luxury

The esteemed watchmaker introduces updated Calatrava and Annual Calendar Moon Phases models, blending classic design with modern aesthetics.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Patek Philippe Unveils New Timepieces, Honoring Legacy of Quiet Luxury

Patek Philippe, a Geneva-based watchmaker founded in 1839 and recognized as the oldest family-owned independent watchmaker, has introduced new iterations of its iconic Calatrava and Annual Calendar Moon Phases timepieces. The brand, known for its horological excellence, presented these watches at Watches and Wonders 2026, continuing its legacy of "quiet luxury."

The Calatrava collection, first introduced in 1932, has long been the embodiment of the classic round wristwatch, characterized by its simplicity and ultrathin design for enhanced wearability. Inspired in part by the Bauhaus movement's form-follows-function philosophy, the new Calatrava 7200/50G-012 features a white gold case and a sunburst-textured dial. This feminine, time-only watch, described by the brand as a "solar" variation, emphasizes understated elegance with its applied Breguet numerals, pear-shaped hands, and absence of a second hand. The dial's subtle play of light and minimalist design contribute to its sophisticated appeal. Candy Udell, president of London Jewelers, noted the watch's versatility, stating, "The color is so beautiful, and to me, it’s very neutral. You can wear it with everything."

In addition to the Calatrava, Patek Philippe is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its groundbreaking annual calendar complication, first introduced in 1996. This complication accurately displays the date for a full year, requiring adjustment only once annually at the end of February, distinguishing it from standard date complications that need monthly corrections. The original annual calendar, reference 5035, featured the date, day, month, and a 24-hour display, with a moonphase version introduced in 1998.

The latest addition to this line is the Complications 4946G-001 Annual Calendar Moon Phases. This model presents a contemporary aesthetic with a polished 18-karat white gold case and a blue-gray dial featuring a double horizontal and vertical satin-brushed finish. The strap, crafted from calfskin leather with white stitching, mimics the texture and color of denim. This timepiece is powered by the caliber 26-330 S QA LU self-winding annual calendar movement, first launched in 2023. The movement, with a diameter of 32 millimeters and a thickness of 5.32 millimeters, is visible through the sapphire caseback, as is its 21-karat gold winding rotor.

A Patek Philippe Complications 4946G watch with a blue dial, moon phase display, and a denim-patterned fabric strap.

Patek Philippe, now in its fourth generation under the Stern family, emphasizes the skill and creativity of its people. President Thierry Stern stated, "At our family-owned company, everything we do relies on the skills and creativity of our people. Only humans can accept the challenge to always be at the edge of what is possible."


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