Rare handcraft editions: What’s new from Patek

At this time of year, all eyes are on Patek Philippe to unveil something remarkable.

At Watches & Wonders 2025, Patek Philippe introduced 15 exciting new models that beautifully combine classic elegance with outstanding craftsmanship. 

Adding to its iconic lineup, the brand revealed some impressive updates, including a self-winding Quadruple Complication and a fresh take on the Calatrava, now featuring instant day and date displays along with an impressive eight-day power reserve.

And those lucky enough to attend Patek’s Rare Handcrafts Exhibition held at the Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva last month, were able to view 78 extraordinary pieces before they go to private collectors. They included 23 of its iconic domed table clocks, one desk clock, 10 pocket watches, and 44 wristwatches from the Calatrava and Golden Ellipse collections.

Not only that, visitors could observe the artisans at work as they demonstrated their virtuosity on site at the highest level of perfection.

Among the incredible items on display were the limited edition “Yellow-Crested Cockatoo” Golden Ellipse wristwatch (reference 5738/50J-011), and “Skiing in Days Gone By” – a domed table clock (reference 2019M-001).

The Cockatoo and Gstaad skiing-themed timepieces each take a creative journey through history – though from very different eras. The Cockatoo watch brings new life to an 18th-century silk painting by renowned Japanese artist Itô Jakuchū, with just 10 pieces available for collectors who appreciate rare artistry.

The Gstaad-inspired domed clock celebrates the bold elegance of 20th-century Swiss graphic design. Its warm leather dial center is a subtle tribute to the inviting interiors of alpine ski chalets – making it a perfect addition to a Gstaad home or for anyone who holds the exclusive resort close to their heart.

Yellow-Crested Cockatoo” Golden Ellipse wristwatch

This Calatrava has a yellow gold case and is a stunning example of horological artistry paying homage to a classic Japanese painting by Itō Jakuchū. It’s a distinctive timepiece within the Golden Ellipse collection.

The Golden Ellipse line is known for its minimalist aesthetic and the use of precious materials, often featuring intricate dial work and high-quality craftsmanship, with some innovative highlights including Longwy enamel on faience and wood micro-marquetry making its debut this year on a domed table clock.

While the cockatoo won’t be to everyone’s taste, no one can deny the meticulous effort that has been executed in creating the cloisonne enamel dial. In this technique, gold wires, shaped by hand, are placed in a design and filled in with enamel and hand painted, to create a scene.

Skiing in Days Gone By

This is a one-of-a-kind pretty dome-shaped table clock from Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts collection. 

Showcasing exquisite Grand Feu cloisonné enamel, the piece vividly captures nostalgic scenes reminiscent of vintage travel posters from elite Swiss ski destinations such as Gstaad, Zermatt, and St. Moritz. 

Drawing inspiration from the golden era of Alpine tourism and Swiss graphic design, the clock also features a leather centre dial—an homage to traditional leather ski bindings of the past.

Need a new watch?

As sports watches like the Nautilus continue to dominate the scene, collectors are starting to turn their attention to more unique, artist-driven pieces. For fans of Patek Philippe’s rare handcrafts, these timepieces aren’t just beautiful works of art—they’re instant classics with lasting appeal.

If you fancy a new or preworn Patek, our team here at Luxe Watches can help. Our showroom in Essex hosts several other popular brands including Rolex, Cartier, Richard Mille and more.