I’ve always been a huge fan of Patek Philippe, especially their more unique pieces. So when I heard about the Golden Ellipse 5738R, I knew I had to get my hands on one. The thing is, these watches are pretty rare and super expensive. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and make my own version of it.
First things first, I started researching everything about this watch. I mean everything. I dug into its history, its design, and what makes it so special. Turns out, the design is based on something called the “golden section,” which is some ancient Greek math stuff. It’s supposed to be this perfect ratio, 1 / 1.6181 or something. Sounds fancy, right?
After I felt like I knew enough, I began looking for parts. This was a real challenge, let me tell you. I scoured online forums, contacted watch part suppliers, and even visited some local watch repair shops. It was like a treasure hunt. I needed a case that looked like the 5738R, a dial that matched the original, and hands that were just right. I managed to find some decent parts after a lot of searching.
Then came the movement. Now, I’m no watchmaker, but I’ve tinkered with watches before. I decided to use a reliable, but not too expensive, automatic movement. I carefully disassembled the movement and cleaned every single part. Then, I lubricated it properly and put it back together. This was probably the most nerve-wracking part of the whole project.
Once the movement was ready, I started assembling the watch. I carefully placed the dial onto the movement, and then attached the hands. It was a delicate process, and I had to be super patient. Finally, I fitted everything into the case and closed it up.
- Research: Learned about the “golden section” and the 5738R’s design.
- Part Hunting: Found the right case, dial, and hands after a long search.
- Movement Work: Cleaned, lubricated, and reassembled a suitable automatic movement.
- Assembly: Carefully put the dial, hands, and movement into the case.
The Final Touches
I tested the watch for a few days to make sure it was keeping time properly. It was running perfectly! I was so stoked. To finish it off, I found a nice leather strap that matched the style of the original 5738R. And there it was, my very own “remake” of the Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse 5738R.
It might not be the real deal, but it’s something I made with my own hands, and I’m pretty darn proud of it. Plus, it looks amazing on my wrist! This whole project was a ton of work, but it was also a lot of fun. I learned so much about watches and really enjoyed the process of building something from scratch. If you’re into watches and looking for a challenging project, I’d definitely recommend giving something like this a try.
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