Patek Philippe Unveils Its First Quartz Ladies First Collection
Patek Philippe has unveiled its first quartz Ladies First collection, introducing six Gondolo watches with cushion-shaped gold cases, diamonds and richly coloured straps. The launch gives a fresh direction to a name that began with the house’s Ladies First Chronograph in 2009.
This time, the emphasis is on jewellery and everyday wear. Three designs pair opaline dials with a border of diamonds, while three Joaillerie versions carry the stones across the dial, case and lugs. There is a choice of white gold, rose gold or the two together, with colours ranging from soft blue-grey to peacock blue and purple.
Inside the new Gondolo Ladies First collection
The shape is an immediate draw. At 31 by 34.8mm, the softened square case has the proportions of a small dress watch, with rounded edges and articulated lugs that allow the strap to follow the wrist. The Art Deco influence is clear, but the colours keep the watches feeling current.
In white gold, reference 7043G-001 pairs a blue-grey opaline dial with a matching calfskin strap. A denim-like pattern and white stitching give the leather an unexpectedly casual finish. Around the dial, 108 diamonds frame a pattern of concentric waves.
The rose-gold 7043R-001 takes a warmer approach, with a chestnut dial and strap. The two-tone 7043GR-001 combines a white-gold case with rose-gold details, a silvery dial and beige calfskin. It is an especially useful option for anyone who already mixes metals in their jewellery.
Diamonds, with a little more colour
The Joaillerie models are considerably more elaborate. On the white-gold 7043/250G-001, 687 brilliant-cut diamonds total 3.11 carats across the watch and buckle, accompanied by 12 blue topaz hour markers. A glossy peacock-blue alligator strap picks up the colour of the stones.
The rose-gold version uses green tsavorites, while the white-and-rose-gold model brings in purple amethysts. Each has a matching coloured strap. These are striking combinations, with the gemstones giving each watch a distinct character even though the case shape remains the same.
What makes this a first?
Patek Philippe has a long history of watches for women, including earlier Ladies First models. The new departure here is a quartz-powered interpretation of Ladies First, using the E15 calibre. It brings a practical option to the line for owners who want to pick up a watch and wear it without winding it.
The watches also launch with Patek Philippe’s new “I AM. I WEAR.” campaign. It is a fitting introduction to a collection with so much choice: the blue-grey model could sit easily alongside everyday tailoring, while the diamond-covered designs bring rather more ceremony to the wrist.
For UK prices and availability, contact Patek Philippe or an authorised retailer.
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