Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Alarm 1938P: A tribute to Philippe Stern

Patek Philippe, under the leadership of legendary figures like Philippe Stern, has developed a reputation for producing some of the most intricate and sought-after timepieces in the world. Philippe Stern led Patek Philippe from 1993 to 2009 and became a pivotal figure in the brand's history, especially for his contributions to the development of chiming watches.

Aesthetics

The Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Alarm 1938P is a testament to the brand's classic design principles. It features a 41mm platinum case, reminiscent of converted pocket watches, with straight lugs and screwed-in strap bars.

Notably, it includes a classic diamond between the lugs at 6 o'clock. The dial is a striking combination of tradition and personal tribute, crafted from 18k gold with Grand Feu black enamel. It is adorned with applied Breguet numerals and hands in white gold, and the 12-hour alarm hand is in rose gold.

The movement is decorated uniquely, with gilded edges on the bridges and hammers, and a 22K yellow-gold mini-rotor with a black-lacquered hand engraving of Philippe Stern's signature​.

Movement

The heart of the Minute Repeater Alarm 1938P is the Calibre R AL 27 PS, a movement that builds on the brand's legacy of automatic minute repeaters. This is a unique version of the caliber R 27 self-winding movement but it now includes the favorite complication of the brand's former president, the minute repeater, but its mechanical innovations don't stop there.  The watch also incorporates an alarm function that announces a preset time, which required the addition of 227 parts and led to four new patents. This caliber facilitates the dual functionality of a minute repeater and an alarm chime, both using the same two classic gongs. The movement also features a unique device that safely switches between the chiming modes, and a push-piece integrated into the crown for mode selection.

Availability & Pricing

Undoubtedly, the Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Alarm 1938P, is a highly limited edition release, with only 30 pieces available, priced at 890,000 Swiss francs. It will not be an easy watch to get, but who those able to afford it, this wrist piece will be a timeless invaluable classic.