Inspired by the “Chronometro Gondolo” collection that Patek had created in the early 1900s for upscale Brazilian importer “Gondolo & Labourier,” the Patek Philippe Gondolo was launched in 1993 as a means for Patek to embrace the Art Deco designs that were once again becoming popular in the world of watchmaking thanks to brands like JLC, Rolex and others with their Reversos, Cellini Princes and various other watches. Using the Art Deco skyscrapers that split the skylines of the world’s major citites, the Gondolo boasts a beautifully fashioned case that features a stepped bezel and soft curves in between these contrasting surfaces. A dress watch that is removed from the world of plainer round dress watches, the Gondolo adds some flair to the category of watch that is typically more refined, all the while maintaining the tenets of dress watch design, such as its understated dial design, manual-wind movement and precious metal construction on a leather strap. However, embracing the more flamboyant side of the Art Deco movement, the example we have here, the Gondolo Serata ref. 4962 is perhaps one of Patek’s most exuberant modern offerings. Boasting a curvy 18kt rose gold construction, the ref. 4962 features 94 spessartites totaling just over 2 carats set across its bezel and case. Arranged in a double color gradient ranging from a darker cognac tone at 12 and 6 o’clock graduating to a lighter mandarin tone that meets in the middle at 9 and 3 o’clock, the ref. 4962 is a lesson in gem setting and gem selection. Matching the hues of its spessartites and rose gold construction, the ref. 4962 features a brown lacquered dial with a floral motif and leaf ‘feuille’ hands that combine to really enhance this example’s whimsical flowy aesthetic.

Here we have a mint and complete example of the current production Gondolo Serata. It’s a modern ladies' watch that is the largest offering of the Gondolo Serata collection that originally debuted almost 20 years ago. As the bold reinterpretation of a modern classic, the ref. 4962/200R makes a massive statement with its 94 spessartites totaling just over 2 carats. A careful observer will note how the spessartites are arranged in a double, color gradient ranging from a darker cognac tone at 12 and 6 o’clock graduating to a lighter mandarin tone at 9 and 3 o’clock. Once you see this, you are mesmerized and this watch can be appreciated for the true, gem-set masterpiece that it is. Further adding to its sophistication is the brown lacquered dial with a floral motif that highlights a high-polished finish over a matte finish. The overall effect adds an extra dimension and depth to the dial that plays beautifully in the light. The current retail is 40,420 USD and no doubt you have a chance to buy this modern work of art at a tempting price via this auction.