A Savannah Reverie: Patek Philippe Unveils Gondolo Serata “Zebra”
There is something dreamlike about the way Patek Philippe interprets nature and translates it into form. While the most obvious way is to portray the animal’s stripes as a pattern or print, Patek Philippe sees it as a study of duality: shadow and light, restraint and exuberance, movement and stillness. The Patek Philippe Gondolo Serata “Zebra” Ref. 4962/200R-010 emerges as an artistic exponent of radiant rose gold and sapphire, schooled in the rigours of Genevan ways where poetry is timeless.
The Gondolo Serata, originally conceived in 2006, has always been one of Patek Philippe’s more sensual creations. It is defined by soft and fluid Art Deco curves that evoke the silhouette of a bygone era. However, this edition reawakens the elegance of yesteryears with a vivid, wild, exotic, and utterly modern temperament. Instead of using dial enamelling, which Patek Philippe excels at, the maison devised an innovative approach for the Gondolo Serata “Zebra”. A sapphire crystal dial is first engraved, then varnished black on both sides. The zebra motif is later achieved through black metallisation and white varnish on the underside of the sapphire crystal dial. In doing so, the zebra and the stripe motif background pulse with contemporary energy, recalling the ethereal dials of Patek Philippe’s Rare Handcrafts collection.
The Gondolo Serata “Zebra” is surrounded by 94 brilliant-cut spessartites arranged in a double colour gradient. Cognac shades on the case top and bottom transition into a fiery gradient of tangerine tones along the sides, evoking a savannah sunset. This particular gemset arrangement not only complements the rose gold case but also accentuates its waisted, cambered profile. While the visual effect makes the watch an instant conversation starter, the asymmetrical architectural flourish ensures the watch sits fluidly on the wrist.
Within the watch beats the quartz Calibre E15, a choice that might raise an eyebrow or two and that purists might contest. Given quartz’s accuracy and the hassle-free nature of constantly setting the time, it might bode well for its wearer. That aside, Patek Philippe’s discipline in finishing is evident; it is hand-decorated and polished in the same accord as those found in the manufacture’s all-mechanical movements.
For a grand dame such as Patek Philippe, the Gondolo Serata “Zebra” is bold yet refined, structured yet instinctive, and a metaphor for contemporary femininity. Within the decorated sapphire dial, Patek Philippe’s emblem hovers between transparency and mystery, much like the way art blurs the line between what is seen and felt.
This article was first seen on Men’s Folio Singapore.
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