The present lot is a stunning example of Patek Philippe’s ability to change and modernize a centuries old art craft. The “Rodeo” Calatrava, was first shown to the public during the Patek Philippe Grand Exhibition in 2017.

Initially, Patek Philippe commissioned a wood marquetry master to create a special presentation box. After the artisan had finished the box design, Patek Philippe would go on to commission this master craftsman in 2008, to make intricate wood marquetry dials, with beautiful and attractive illustrations such as the present timepiece.

The “Rodeo” illustration consists of 318 pieces of wood, 40 inlays, and 20 different types of wood, in order to achieve the highly detailed illustration of an American Cowboy. The artisan must hand cut each piece of wood in order to achieve the highest level of detail and to ensure that each piece fits perfectly with the others.

The present reference features a wood marquetry dial, an extremely difficult craft to master, with so few artisans surviving today. In 2008, Patek Philippe would have their first experience with wood marquetry and its delicate process. Ref. 5089G-070 was created in a limited edition of 10 pieces, all featuring the “Rodeo” wood marquetry depiction on its dial.