You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.’ — Patek Philippe started this now ubiquitous marketing campaign in 1966 and never looked back, though they already had an outstanding legacy since the watchmaker was founded in the year 1839. Patek built its reputation on several foundational pillars: tradition, innovation, and excellence, all of which are paramount in every timepiece they make, both old and new.

The Gondolo line of wristwatches stems from a business relationship between Patek Philippe and Gondolo & Labouriau dating all the way back to 1872. Gondolo & Labouriau was a world-renowned jeweler based out of Rio de Janeiro during Brazil's economic boom of the 19th century through the early 20th century. Gondolo & Labouriau were in fact so successful at selling Patek Philippe watches, they accounted for more than a third of Patek sales worldwide during the two brands' partnership. The Gondolo line exists today as a celebration of this relationship, though Gondolo & Labouriau are no longer around. The watches under the Gondolo line cater to the fashionable enthusiast of wristwatches, with these unique designs being primarily cast in geometrical shapes with noble metals.

The Patek Philippe Gondolo Calendario ref. 5135J is large, well-equipped, and impressive. Employing the complicated cal. 324 S QA LU 24H/205 movement that features an automatic winding system, full calendar, moon phase, and a dedicated 24hr indicator, so it's no wonder why this movement is also adorned with the Geneve seal. The 18K tonneau-style case measures a whopping 51mm from lug to lug and 39mm across, this large size allows for a dial that can display a lot of information without being visually busy. Despite its size the Gondolo Calendario ref. 5135J remains extremely elegant and sophisticated in classic Patek Philippe fashion.

CASE & BRACELET

The robust 18K yellow gold tonneau case features impressive dimensions and details, the case itself displays minimal signs of previous polishing and honest signs of light use with a subtle rosy patina present. The case retains its original Patek Philippe Cross crown. The sapphire crystal and sapphire display case back both remain in clean condition with no damage present. The watch comes supplied on its original 2pc Patek Philippe brown alligator strap with an 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe tang buckle. 

DIAL & HANDS

The beautifully executed and perfectly proportioned silver dial is in flawless condition. The dial actually features three tonal finishes, the inner dial is finished in a concentric texture while the inner minute track that surrounds it is a satin finish, and the outer portion of the dial that houses the hour markers features a subtle sunburst finish. The original yellow gold dauphine-style hands are also flawless. 

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes as a complete set featuring: the original Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, inner and outer boxes, booklets, and the original leather document wallet. The set is missing its setting pusher. The watch is keeping time and functions perfectly.