Patek Philippe Complications for Women: A Summary (Part 2)

Across the last century, women’s complications were often focused around calendars, particularly lunar calendar displays. While there were commissioned timepieces and female collectors often acquired complication watches designed for men, there were few options centered around the woman as a serious collector. That changed 11 years ago, when Patek Philippe introduced a bold creation in 2009.

Thinking back, it makes perfect sense for Patek Philippe to fit the compact movement into a ladies’ model first. For one, the case and movement were perfectly fitted to each other, with the Ref. 7071’s 35mm by 39mm frame a snug cushion fit for the stunningly finished movement that could be well admired from the case back.

The chronograph is traditionally seen as a “men’s complication”, perhaps because of its association with male-dominated sporting events in the past, such as horse racing or motor racing. Of course, this is no longer the case today, which may have been one other reason for the choice to exhibit this movement in a ladies’ watch.

The watch also demonstrated the brand’s commitment to the female watch collector, which had few specialised options at the time. The unique design of the case and dial also allowed Patek Philippe to showcase its refined aesthetics in women’s watch design. It was a shout out to the independently successful modern female, who wore Patek Philippe’s complications as a badge of honour.