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Lot Essay
The splendid Patek Philippe Rare Handcrafts reference 5077/100G-030, known as the ‘Masque de Venise’, was created in a limited edition of only 10 pieces worldwide and, to the best of our knowledge, the present watch is the first example to be offered at international auction.
Housed in a magnificent 18k white gold case set with 141 diamonds, its exceptional enamel dial depicts a masked figure evoking the beauty, elegance and mystery of the Venetian Carnival, further highlighted with delicate touches of gold. The scene is entirely hand-painted using the demanding technique of grisaille enamel, whereby the artist gradually builds successive layers of white enamel over a dark enamel background to create remarkable depth, contrast and subtle tonal shading. Requiring extraordinary control and precision, the creation of each individual dial takes one of Patek Philippe’s master enamellists approximately seven days of painstaking work.
Reference 5077 provides a remarkable showcase for the unparalleled skills of Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts division, combining traditional watchmaking with breathtaking, entirely handmade enamel dials of exceptional complexity and beauty. The extraordinary abilities of the craftspeople responsible for these miniature works of art are demonstrated in every detail, each dial requiring a combination of artistic sensitivity, technical mastery and countless hours of meticulous handwork. Produced in extremely small editions and sets, Patek Philippe’s enamel-dial watches have become highly coveted by collectors, with an international following eagerly anticipating each new creation.
Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts division is dedicated to the preservation of the diverse artisanal skills that have been associated with horology for more than four centuries. Techniques such as enamelling, miniature painting, engraving, guilloché and gem-setting are perpetuated by highly specialised artisans, ensuring that these increasingly rare crafts continue to flourish within contemporary watchmaking. Their continued use not only contributes to the survival of this precious artistic heritage, but also results in timepieces of extraordinary individuality and beauty.
Housed in a magnificent 18k white gold case set with 141 diamonds, its exceptional enamel dial depicts a masked figure evoking the beauty, elegance and mystery of the Venetian Carnival, further highlighted with delicate touches of gold. The scene is entirely hand-painted using the demanding technique of grisaille enamel, whereby the artist gradually builds successive layers of white enamel over a dark enamel background to create remarkable depth, contrast and subtle tonal shading. Requiring extraordinary control and precision, the creation of each individual dial takes one of Patek Philippe’s master enamellists approximately seven days of painstaking work.
Reference 5077 provides a remarkable showcase for the unparalleled skills of Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts division, combining traditional watchmaking with breathtaking, entirely handmade enamel dials of exceptional complexity and beauty. The extraordinary abilities of the craftspeople responsible for these miniature works of art are demonstrated in every detail, each dial requiring a combination of artistic sensitivity, technical mastery and countless hours of meticulous handwork. Produced in extremely small editions and sets, Patek Philippe’s enamel-dial watches have become highly coveted by collectors, with an international following eagerly anticipating each new creation.
Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts division is dedicated to the preservation of the diverse artisanal skills that have been associated with horology for more than four centuries. Techniques such as enamelling, miniature painting, engraving, guilloché and gem-setting are perpetuated by highly specialised artisans, ensuring that these increasingly rare crafts continue to flourish within contemporary watchmaking. Their continued use not only contributes to the survival of this precious artistic heritage, but also results in timepieces of extraordinary individuality and beauty.