A fake Patek Philippe perpetual calendar 5320G is a replica of the genuine 5320G, a perpetual calendar watch known for its vintage-inspired design. These replicas range from basic quartz models to high-end automatic copies that attempt to match the original's dial, case, and calendar functions. The quality varies widely, so understanding what to look for helps you avoid poor imitations.
What Is the Patek Philippe 5320G?
The genuine Patek Philippe 5320G is a perpetual calendar wristwatch introduced in 2017. It features a 40mm white gold case, a cream lacquer dial, applied gold numerals, and syringe-shaped hands. The watch has three subdials for the day, date, and month, plus a moon phase and leap year indicator. It runs on the caliber 324 S Q, an automatic movement. The 5320G is part of Patek Philippe's Complications collection and is admired for its retro style that recalls mid-century Patek calendars.
How to Spot a Fake 5320G
Spotting a fake Patek Philippe perpetual calendar 5320G requires attention to detail. Genuine models use white gold, which is heavier than steel or plated brass. The dial printing on real 5320G watches is crisp and thin, while fakes often have thicker, uneven text. Check the subdial positions: they should be perfectly aligned at 9, 12, and 3 o'clock. The moon phase disc on authentic watches shows a detailed moon and stars, not a simple sticker. Also, the perpetual calendar functions should change correctly, including the leap year. A ticking seconds hand (quartz) is a clear sign of a cheap replica.
Quality Tiers of Replica 5320G Watches
Replica 5320G watches fall into three main tiers.
- Low-end: Quartz movement, incorrect dial layout, cheap materials, and often a case that is too thick or too small.
- Mid-range: Automatic movement, closer dial details, but flaws like wrong date font, misaligned subdials, or a poorly finished case.
- High-end: Often called super clones, these use decorated automatic movements, precious metal plating, sapphire crystal, and alligator straps. They aim to match the weight and feel of the original.
What to Check in a High-Quality Replica
If you are considering a high-quality fake Patek Philippe perpetual calendar 5320G, inspect these features:
- Dial: Cream lacquer finish with correct font and applied gold numerals.
- Case: 40mm diameter, correct lugs, polished and brushed surfaces that match the original.
- Movement: Automatic with decorated bridges and correct calendar functions.
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating.
- Strap: Alligator leather with a correct buckle.
Common Flaws in Cheap Replicas
Cheap replicas often have obvious flaws. The subdials may be in the wrong positions or too small. The date window font can be too thick or the wrong style. The moon phase disc might not match the original's artwork. The case is often thicker than the genuine 40mm profile. The seconds hand may tick instead of sweep. The weight is usually much lighter because the case is not solid gold. These issues make cheap fakes easy to identify.
Legal and Ethical Note
Buying a replica watch is a personal choice, but selling a fake as genuine is illegal. Replicas are not investments and should not be represented as authentic Patek Philippe watches. Always be honest about what you own.