Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Lepine Samurai in Armor Ref. 992/176G

The Patek Philippe Pocket Watch 992/176G is a unique piece created for the 2023 Patek Philippe Tokyo exhibition. An old photograph of a samurai in armor inspired the decoration on the back of this unique piece. To reproduce this portrait full of life in all its detail Patek Philippe chose the refined technique of miniature painting on enamel, a grand Genevan specialty. The enameller built up his little picture in small deft touches using 10 base colors, including 7 blended shades. The scene was then protected and intensified by several layers of flux (a transparent enamel). The case back required 29 firings at temperatures ranging from 800°C to 900°C. The white-gold dial coated with opaque beige Grand Feu enamel, presents applied Breguet numerals, leaf-shaped hands and a small-seconds counter, all in white gold. A red spinel cabochon (0.38 ct) decorates the crown.