Alright, let’s talk about that time I tried to remake a Patek Philippe Gondolo 7041R-001. Yeah, you heard that right. I’m no watchmaker, but I’ve always been fascinated by these things. And the Gondolo? It’s just so classy with that rectangular shape. So I got this wild idea in my head: “Why not try to recreate it myself?”
First, I started digging around for info on this watch. I mean, we’re talking about a nearly 30,000 dollar piece here. Found out it’s rose gold, manual wind, got that small seconds dial, the whole nine yards. They call it a “form” watch. Whatever, it’s beautiful and that was enough for me to start.
I knew I needed the same movement. So I went on to get some more information about the movement. Turns out, it’s a Caliber 215 PS, mechanical manual wind, with 18 jewels. No way I could get an original, but I figured I could find something similar. So I searched for days to get all the parts I needed, and maybe I could start the project.
Sourcing the Parts
- Movement: This was the toughest part. I managed to find a used movement that was kind of like the 215 PS. Not exact, but close enough, I hoped. It took me longer than I expected but still, I got it.
- Case: No way I was working with real rose gold. I found a decent-looking rectangular case online, stainless steel, but it had the right vibe. I got it plated in rose gold color.
- Dial and Hands: I tried to find a dial that matched the original, but no luck. I ended up getting a plain white one and some similar-looking hands. Then I tried to get something to make them look like the original.
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal, that’s what the original has. I found a replacement crystal that fit my case, but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t the same quality. But it looked good.
Putting it all together? A nightmare, to be honest. I watched a bunch of watchmaking videos online, bought some tiny tools, and went at it. Let me tell you, these things are way more complicated than they look. I messed up a few times, scratched the case, bent a hand…you name it.
Eventually, after weeks of tinkering, I had something that resembled the Gondolo 7041R-001. It wasn’t perfect, not even close. But it was mine. And I did everything myself, from nothing but an idea to a finished product. I even engraved a serial number on the case back, just like the real deal. I wore it a few times, but mostly it just sits on my desk. It’s a reminder that I can do some cool stuff when I put my mind to it. Would I do it again? Probably not. But it was a fun ride, and I learned a ton about watches in the process. If you ever think about making your own watch, maybe just buy a kit instead. Trust me on that one.
Click to consult