by Kyle Stults on November 19, 2009
I love one-of-a-kind watches. Particularly those that get produced solely for a charitable cause. Today I have something very special to share – actually 2 very special “somethings” – each a one-of-a-kind Patek Philippe cased in titanium, each produced in support of a single Swiss charitable organization named Children Action. This year, the Geneva-based Children Action organization celebrates its 15th anniversary of helping “children not helped by life, because the most fundamental of all human rights is the right to a childhood . ” Right on.
First, here is the unique piece that Patek has produced for the Children Action 2009 fundraising event to be held this coming Monday, November 23. It is the Patek Philippe Calatrava 5180T. It has a skeleton titanium case 39mm in diameter, and is powered by a Caliber 240 self-winding movement with 48 hours power reserve. Set on a black alligator strap with matching titanium buckle. WOW!
To many, this watch may be difficult to recognize as a Patek Philippe, but to me this is merely a testament to just how special this watch is. I say this because this 5180T is a) cased in titanium, a metal rarely used by Patek, and b) the watch is extensively skeletonized, also not something seen often for Patek’s. However, if you look closely, you will see the unmistakable sign of Patek – the Calatrava cross – as it is decorated into the dial (in the upper right quardant).
Now – as I alluded to in my opening paragraph – the 5180T is not the first time that Patek Philippe has supported Children Action. Back in 2007, it produced this unique piece- also a titanium Calatrava, the Patek Philippe 5000T:
Movement No. 3510992, Ref. 6000T. Exclusively made for “Children Action 2007” in 2007.
It was first sold on May 2, 2007 at a price I do not know, but I can tell you that the following year it sold at an Antiquorum auction for 208,500 Swiss Francs (incl. Buyer’s premium). Here is how the watch was presented for auction in March 2008 – with fitted box, Certificate of Origin, push pin and booklets:
Although we are in a different economic environment and watch market than in 2007, I am quite confident that the Patek Philippe 5180T will go for a very high price that will further help Children Action to continue to help those who need it most.
If you want to see another unique piece that I admire because it was created for a charitable cause , check out this Audemars Piguet for Abruzzo.
Pictures: Antiquorum and Patek Philippe.
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