To commemorate the 85th birthday of Philippe Stern, honorary president and former president of Patek Philippe from 1993 to 2009, his son Thierry Stern created an extremely special timepiece, the reference 1938P. This exquisite watch is a tribute to a legendary figure in watchmaking and showcases an innovative new movement from Patek Philippe. The self-winding caliber R AL 27 PS ingeniously combines a minute repeater, Philippe Stern’s favorite complication, with an alarm function that chimes the same classic gongs. This technical marvel features 227 components and four new patents, representing Patek Philippe’s commitment to horological excellence.
The Minute Repeater’s complexity is visible through its sapphire crystal, revealing a meticulously finished exclusive movement. The chamfered edges of the bridges and hammers are gilded, and the 22K yellow-gold mini-rotor is rhodium-plated with yellow-gold edges, featuring a black-lacquered engraving of Philippe Stern’s signature. The tribute extends to the 18K gold dial, adorned with Philippe Stern’s portrait in Grand Feu white and gray miniature painting on enamel, set against a Grand Feu black enamel background.
Housed in an Officer’s style platinum case, reminiscent of Philippe Stern’s cherished creations like the 1989 limited edition Reference 3960, the Ref. 1938P embodies Patek Philippe’s heritage and innovation. The case also features a sapphire crystal back protected by a hinged dust cover, hand-engraved with “A mon père, 85 ans de passion horlogère” (To my father, 85 years of watchmaking passion), symbolizing a passion for luxury timekeeping and craftsmanship. View all luxury watches currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.
Source: Patek Philippe
