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Good evening everyone.
This time, we will introduce "that" model that is affordable and also highly practical. Please read to the end!!
"Ref.5524G-001"
"Calatrava Pilot Travel Time" 18KWG
The Calatrava Pilot Travel Time, Ref. 5524G-001, was announced as a new model in 2015.
The 18KWG (white gold) case was paired with a navy dial, and the case diameter was 42mm, giving it a striking size, but since the design was not typical of traditional Patek Philippe, it received mixed reviews when it was first released.
When I first saw it, I remember thinking it looked similar to IWC, Zenith, or even Hamilton, but in fact, it has its roots in aviator watches from the 1930s, making it a genuine Patek Philippe model with a design based on historical background. Also, when it was first released, there were few in circulation, and the market price fluctuated at a premium above the list price.
As its name suggests, the Ref. 5524G is equipped with a "travel time" function, but it has one revolutionary feature that sets it apart from previous models: a patented locking mechanism on the local time change button.
At first glance, you might think, "Is that all there is to it?", but this was an important evolution that greatly improved practicality. The knurled button may look like a "screw-in" type, but it can be unlocked with a gentle turn, allowing for push-button operation. The previous travel time buttons on the top and bottom were soft to the touch, and were often pressed unintentionally when putting on or taking off the watch. However, the locking mechanism of the "Ref. 5524" eliminates this concern, allowing for safe use.
Patek Philippe's "Travel Time" mechanism is easy to use; simply press the buttons at 10 o'clock and 8 o'clock to set the local time. This is especially recommended for those who travel abroad frequently for business or leisure.
●How to use and how to read it ▶ The small windows at 3 o'clock for HOME (departure point) and 9 o'clock for LOCAL (local location) allow you to distinguish between day and night (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM: White, 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM: Blue)
▶ Press the buttons on the side of the case at 10 o'clock and 8 o'clock to change the time zone (normal operation of the hour hand)
Press the push button at 8 o'clock to advance the hour by one hour. Press the push button at 10 o'clock to advance the hour by one hour.
This model is a rare example of Patek Philippe using calf leather. The strap is made of matte brown calf leather, which complements the navy dial, and features ivory stitching, creating an aviator-inspired design.
Calfskin straps usually tend to give a casual impression, but this one has been finished with an exquisite balance without losing its elegance.
In addition, the newly designed 18KWG pin buckle is inspired by the metal fittings on the parachute harnesses used by pilots, and the attention to detail in the watch reflects the aviator style.
The movement, visible through the sapphire crystal back, is the "Cal. 26-330 SC FUS." When first released, the watch was equipped with the "Cal. 324 SC FUS," but was later updated to evolve into the "Cal. 26-330 SC FUS." This improvement not only added a hacking function (second hand stop), but also eliminated the time periods during which calendar changes could not be made, which previously required careful attention. As a result, operability and practicality have been greatly improved.
The warranty is dated 2024. There are some minor scratches that appear to have been caused during storage, and slight wrinkles on the leather strap, but it is an unused item that has never been worn.
The selling price is 5,995,000 yen (tax included)
summary
What did you think?
Much to everyone's regret, production of this model ended in February 2025, but the official domestic retail price of the subsequently announced "Ref. 5524G-010" is 9,640,000 yen (tax included) as of September 2025, so you can see how reasonable our retail price is.
We will continue to introduce as many attractive and recommended models as possible, so please look forward to the next issue!
See you next time!
