Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication Reference 5308G-001

New Release: Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication Reference 5308G-001 This year at Watches & Wonders 2025, Patek Philippe once again redefined haute horlogerie with the Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication (reference 5308G-001). Originally unveiled as a limited edition platinum model during the Art of Watches 2023 Tokyo exhibition, this quadruple complication now joins Patek Philippe’s regular collection in an elegant white gold case. A true marvel of miniaturization and energy efficiency, it combines a minute repeater, a split-seconds chronograph with two new patented mechanisms, and an instantaneous perpetual calendar. With a diameter of 42 mm, it is a piece to be marveled at, not locked away in a safe.

Like its predecessor, the Reference 5208, the Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication has a diameter of 42 mm and sits well-balanced on the wrist. Yet, as expected, with all the complications crammed (beautifully) into its arms, it measures just 17.71mm thick. The case is crafted in white gold, and the concave bezel and skeletonized lugs exude sophistication, adding a modern touch. Every surface is meticulously hand-polished, a testament to Patek Philippe’s commitment to craftsmanship. The watch comes with two interchangeable casebacks – one with a sapphire crystal to reveal the groundbreaking movement, and the other in solid white gold for those who prefer a more understated aesthetic. The case is resistant to moisture and dust, but not waterproof. But if you take it to the water, can we chat? Complementing the case is a shiny dark blue square-scale alligator strap secured by a patented white gold three-piece folding clasp. This combination both enhances the watch’s sense of luxury and overall wearability.

Continuing its mastery of dial design, Patek Philippe uses an ice-blue sunray finish that is both elegant and legible. Applied faceted hour markers and white gold dauphine hands create a harmonious contrast with the blued metal. Given the sheer number of complications, legibility is essential. The day, date and month of the perpetual calendar are arranged in an orderly arc between 10 and 2 o'clock, set in a white gold marquetry frame. The date window is slightly larger, reflecting its importance in daily use. Additional windows at 8 and 4 o'clock provide day/night indications and leap year cycles respectively - both are essential for setting the calendar.

At the heart of the reference 5308G-001 is the new Caliber R CHR 27 PS QI, a technical triumph that incorporates four major complications without being unwieldy. It has a total of 67 jewels and a power reserve of 38-48 hours (depending on how many complications you run!). Despite the addition of 80 extra components (799 in total) for the split-seconds function, the movement is only 1.93 mm thicker than its predecessor – an incredible feat of engineering. But I would expect nothing less from Patek Philippe.

Integrating a split-seconds chronograph, which is known for its high energy consumption, was a challenge. Patek Philippe addressed this by increasing barrel spring torque and using a platinum micro-rotor to improve winding efficiency. An innovative anti-recoil clutch wheel eliminates unwanted hand vibrations while saving energy, and a patented isolation device lifts the split-seconds lever when stopped, preventing power loss and ensuring accuracy and reliability.

The monopusher split-seconds chronograph is operated by a single push-piece at 2 o'clock for starting, stopping and resetting, while a second push-piece at 4 o'clock controls the split-seconds function, allowing intermediate time tracking. The minute repeater uses two gongs, which are activated by a slide at 9 o'clock. Each chime is personally reviewed by Thierry Stern, ensuring the unique “Patek Philippe sound”. The instantaneous perpetual calendar, made up of 220 of the movement’s 799 parts, enables all displays to jump precisely 30 milliseconds. Two patented mechanisms ensure smooth transitions, even with only 10 hours of power reserve remaining.

The Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication Reference 5308G-001 is a masterclass in haute horlogerie. By integrating four major complications into a delicate 42mm case, Patek Philippe has achieved the nearly impossible: a technically impressive and wearable watch. While I doubt it will be popular among buyers, that’s a real shame. It’s a beautiful piece that deserves to be in the sun, not locked away in a safe somewhere. Whether admired for its groundbreaking movement, elegant dial or sheer mechanical ingenuity, this timepiece cements Patek Philippe’s place as the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking. For collectors and enthusiasts, the Patek Philippe Quadruple Complication Reference 5308G-001 is a grail watch in every sense of the word.