Since its establishment in 1839, Patek Philippe has cultivated a rich milieu of ladies’ jewellery watches. The manufacture began creating precious minute repeaters in the 19th century, leading to the creation of the first Swiss-made ladies’ wristwatch in 1868. From there, the brand’s expertise grew exponentially, culminating in the unveiling of the first ladies’ 5-minute repeater early on during the 20th century.
Now, Patek Philippe are writing the next chapter in this exciting horological journey courtesy of the Twenty~4 Automatic: a range of elegant, sporty jewellery watches that are the perfect companion for any time of day.
A legacy of inimitable style
The modern Twenty~4 Automatic takes both stylistic and conceptual inspiration from a similar timepiece released in 1999. Back then (as now), Patek Philippe created the original Twenty~4 in response to the expectations of younger female customers. The watch was shaped in the style of a manchette, powered by a quartz movement, and produced in a variety of different precious metals. Though that design has been superseded by the current generation of Twenty~4 timepieces, its dynamic, pioneering spirit lives on.
Within the bracelet of the Twenty~4 Automatic, collectors can discern flickers of the past. The central links, so subtly cambered, are a fitting tribute to the collection’s previously square outlook; while the tiered outer links recall the original’s gridded bracelet.
The biggest update comes in the form of a new shape, with the Twenty~4 Automatic introducing a rounded, 36mm case to the collection. Layered on top is a dynamic new bezel — bevelled at each corner in order to underscore the similarly sinuous beauty of the cambered bracelet. Each bezel is then decorated with a dentelle setting, producing two rows of offset diamonds which highlight the quality of polishing throughout the case.
Each individual case component is cold-formed with the aid of a high-tonnage press — a technique that results in harder, thinner, metals. Following cold-forming, each component is subject to a rigorous polishing process that meets the standards of the Patek Philippe Seal. Even for multiple craftsmen, the task is difficult — given the number of subtle, intersecting geometries that are expressed throughout the case and bezel.
In keeping with the collection’s modern styling and outlook, each dial is designed to be as balanced, open and uncluttered as possible. The large Arabic numerals are applied in 18K white gold, exhibiting fantastic legibility in concert with the classic 3-hand setup (i.e. minutes, hours, seconds). For added functionality, a date window takes up prime position at 6 o’clock.
A timepiece with its own momentum — perfect for the modern self-driven woman
With its sleek contours and bejewelled profile, the new Twenty~4 Automatic is a versatile timekeeper for the woman who pursues an active, eclectic lifestyle. The classic round case and integrated bracelet make it wearable with all kinds of attire — from activewear to evening gowns, and everything in between.
Patek Philippe’s watchmakers envisioned that the Twenty~4 Automatic would be worn by a woman who enjoys the convenience of modern technology yet who adores traditional craftsmanship. That’s why it’s powered by the calibre 324 SC: a robust in-house movement, outfitted with Patek Philippe’s proprietary Spiromax balance spring. The spring’s terminal curvature, along with its unique Silinvar composition, ensure that the 324 SC tells precise time all the time — appropriate for the ‘go anywhere do everything’ spirit that permeates this watch.
As you’d expect, the movement is also a repository for some truly elaborate finishing — among the best examples you’ll find anywhere in the market. The distinctive Patek Philippe Côtes de Genève — seldom surpassed, often imitated — is presented throughout the mainplate and bridges, whereas polished and bevelled finishes play across the movement’s many internal surfaces.
Five of a kind
Patek Philippe currently offers five versions of the Twenty~4 Automatic, all of which are produced with a diamond-set bezel. The two stainless steel executions are arguably the most versatile: ideal as a daily wearer thanks to the clean bracelet and a choice of blue or gray sunburst dials. A further two models in 18K rose gold explore the Twenty~4 Automatic’s dressier dimension, configured with dials in the brand’s distinctive brown or gray ‘Shantung’ finish (so-called because the striped texture is reminiscent of raw silk).
Additionally, one final variant raises the total number of diamonds to a lavish 469 (approximately 1.88ct) with the dentelle style setting playing out across the crown, bezel and outer bracelet links.
The Patek Philippe Twenty~4 Automatic collection is available now (prices starting at HK$195,200). For more information or to locate your nearest boutique, visit Patek Philippe online.
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