Ladies First is design first
Patek Philippe’s commitment to design excellence is evident in the familiar rounded edges of the Gondolo’s Art Deco-inspired square case, reborn in models that explore the enduring appeal of its unmistakable silhouette, now enlivened with bright hues and sophisticated gem-settings. In particular, the new watches recall the pioneering 2009 Gondolo, which dared to offer not men, but women, the Manufacture’s much-anticipated first in-house, hand-wound chronograph movement.
This design-led collection was born of President Thierry Stern’s desire to offer women an easy-to-wear jewelry watch perfectly aligned for an age of informed and mindful choices. The pairing of precious settings with a practical quartz movement shows a nuanced approach in tune with today’s open-minded, mix and match mood and Patek Philippe’s dedication to offering women choices beyond the iconic Twenty~4, the edgy gem-set Aquanaut Luce, the sporty Nautilus, and the classic round-case Calatrava. Honed over time, these accomplished designs are the culmination of decades of savoir-faire, distilled into the exquisitely detailed and timeless new watches that acknowledge the best of the past, but always with an eye to the future.
A first for the new ladies’ campaign
The Gondolo Ladies First will be the inaugural collection to appear alongside the new ‘IAM. I WEAR.’ campaign, created by Leagas Delaney in London and aimed at the modern confident woman who increasingly seeks out Patek Philippe. The move resets the relationship between Patek Philippe and its female clients who are thoughtful, and discerning; who choose with intelligence, culture and intention; and who have a deep appreciation for enduring value. A short film supports the launch, directed by the award-winning duo Mona Fastvold and Brady Corbet.
A bold new chapter steeped in heritage
The new models offer a fine balance between history and modernity. The Gondolo, born in the Art Deco era, was made for the Brazilian market during Patek Philippe’s golden age of design. It has been graced with cushion, square, rectangular, and tonneau shapes, and has housed some of Patek Philippe’s most memorable designs. Its influence has been constant and indelible: the 1990s classic ladies Gondolo inspired the groundbreaking Twenty~4.
Rich in detail yet free of excess, the fully polished gold cushion-shaped case is a masterpiece of soft, voluptuous curves. Juxtaposing square and round forms, with an unmistakably modern yet vintage appeal, the new watches echo the Manufacture’s unique stylistic tradition. The smooth, rounded contours of the case and the articulated lugs ensure enhanced wearing comfort, allowing for the watch to sit flush on the wrist. Thanks to the thin quartz movement, the Gondolo case retains its elegant, slender profile. Two distinct models are offered: three versions with diamond-set dials, and three Joaillerie versions entirely set with diamonds on the dial, case, and lugs. They join two existing Haute Joaillerie pearl-and- diamond models.
Gem-set dials: the radiance of diamonds every day
The multi-layered dial is highlighted by the sloping flange section set with 108 diamonds that perfectly trace its contours to create a halo of light, achieved by a meticulous gradation of diamond sizes and near-invisible grain settings. With subtle mastery, the diamonds enhance the dial’s architecture without dominating it.
Three new models comprise:
• A white gold case with a blue-gray opaline dial, with a matching tone calfskin strap with a denim pattern and contrasting white stitching - Ref. 7043G-001
• A rose gold case with a chestnut opaline dial, with a matching tone calfskin strap with a denim pattern and contrasting cream stitching - Ref. 7043R-001
• A white gold case with rose gold lugs and crown, and a silvery opaline dial with a grained beige calfskin strap - Ref. 7043GR-001
The brilliance of the diamond-set flange is offset by the calming effect of the wave pattern on the opaline dial across which sweep the delicately tapered leaf-shaped hands. The embossed motif creates an eye- pleasing texture of rippling troughs and peaks, while the opaline finish lends a soft, luminous quality to the composition. Contrasting with the faceted geometry of the gold applied trapeze-shaped hour markers, the miniature markers are gold cabochons that create the effect of perfect spheres set on a sea of waves.
Joaillerie: effortlessly elegant luminous creations
Three Joaillerie models are blissfully indulgent and uncompromisingly feminine, with the case, dial, and lugs entirely set with 687 brilliant-cut diamonds. The color gemstone trapeze-shaped hour markers are set in gold prongs or ‘chatons’ and applied to the dial, allowing light to pass through the gemstone and enhance its vibrant color. The gemstones perfectly match the hands treated with ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) and the vivaciously shiny alligator leather straps.
The three variants are:
• A white gold case with blue topaz hour markers and a peacock blue strap - Ref. 7043/250G-001
• A rose gold case with green tsavorite hour markers, and a green strap - Ref. 7043/250R-001
• A white and rose gold case with purple amethyst hour markers and a purple strap -Ref. 7043/250GR-001
In a masterstroke of technical achievement, the curved cushion-shaped cases and lugs are set with 253 brilliant-cut diamonds. On the dial, the 108 stones illuminate the flange section, while 303 diamonds spiral around the center of the face, each stone precisely graduated in size to create mesmerizing concentric circles.
Haute Joaillerie: a harmonious union of pearls and diamonds
Two Haute Joaillerie models, launched in 2016, with either rose or white gold cases, complete the line- up. Each is lavished with 552 brilliant and baguette-cut diamonds, and the bracelets are a dreamy combination of 79 Akoya pearls and diamonds.
Beauty and precision
To ensure optimal fire and depth of color, top-quality diamonds or color gemstones are selected. According to Patek Philippe’s strict criteria, and in line with the GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) standards, only excellent clarity, color, proportions and finishes make the grade.
All diamond-setting is done in the Manufacture’s gem-setting ateliers that operate to the most demanding standards. The highly skilled setters work with special gem microscopes to ensure flawless settings that allow the stones to shine to their full potential, a testament to Patek Philippe’s unwavering dedication to perfection.
Finely crafted quartz movements
The watches are powered by the E15 quartz movement, combining precision with ease of use. The E15 is crafted with meticulous attention to quality, and each mechanical component is finished with the same devotion to craftsmanship as the Manufacture’s manual-winding and automatic movements. The components are 20% electronic, while the remaining 80% are manufactured in the same way as mechanical calibers.
