.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
Introduced in 2019 as part of Patek Philippe's prestigious Grand Complications collection, reference 5520P combines the manufacture's practical Travel Time mechanism with one of its most unusual modern complications: a mechanical alarm. Produced in platinum and made in highly limited numbers, the model stands apart within Patek Philippe's contemporary production through both its technical sophistication and distinctive aviation-inspired design.
Building upon the Travel Time concept, reference 5520P incorporates a 24-hour alarm mechanism, with the selected alarm time displayed digitally through apertures on the dial. When activated, a hammer strikes a traditional gong, combining the practical functionality of an alarm with the acoustic expertise of Patek Philippe's chiming watches. At its heart is the specially developed self-winding calibre AL 30-660 S C FUS, reportedly taking an incredible five years of research and development, a highly sophisticated movement incorporating four patented innovations.
The distinctive four-pusher case allows the numerous functions to remain remarkably intuitive. On the left, two twist-lock pushers marked + and – independently advance or retreat the local time in one-hour increments. On the right, the pusher at 2 o'clock activates or deactivates the alarm, while that at 4 o'clock is used for setting and winding the alarm mechanism. The crown allows adjustment of the home-time hour and minute hands.
Completing the highly distinctive appearance is the sunburst ebony black dial, inspired by vintage military and aviation instruments. Large luminous Arabic numerals ensure excellent legibility, while a bell-shaped aperture beneath 12 o'clock indicates the status of the alarm, appearing white when activated and dark when switched off. Separate local and home day/night apertures further enhance the functionality of the Travel Time display. Combining an unconventional aesthetic with an exceptionally sophisticated alarm mechanism, reference 5520P is one of Patek Philippe's most technically distinctive modern Grand Complications.
Building upon the Travel Time concept, reference 5520P incorporates a 24-hour alarm mechanism, with the selected alarm time displayed digitally through apertures on the dial. When activated, a hammer strikes a traditional gong, combining the practical functionality of an alarm with the acoustic expertise of Patek Philippe's chiming watches. At its heart is the specially developed self-winding calibre AL 30-660 S C FUS, reportedly taking an incredible five years of research and development, a highly sophisticated movement incorporating four patented innovations.
The distinctive four-pusher case allows the numerous functions to remain remarkably intuitive. On the left, two twist-lock pushers marked + and – independently advance or retreat the local time in one-hour increments. On the right, the pusher at 2 o'clock activates or deactivates the alarm, while that at 4 o'clock is used for setting and winding the alarm mechanism. The crown allows adjustment of the home-time hour and minute hands.
Completing the highly distinctive appearance is the sunburst ebony black dial, inspired by vintage military and aviation instruments. Large luminous Arabic numerals ensure excellent legibility, while a bell-shaped aperture beneath 12 o'clock indicates the status of the alarm, appearing white when activated and dark when switched off. Separate local and home day/night apertures further enhance the functionality of the Travel Time display. Combining an unconventional aesthetic with an exceptionally sophisticated alarm mechanism, reference 5520P is one of Patek Philippe's most technically distinctive modern Grand Complications.