The tonneau is one of the classic case shapes in watchmaking, and it has never been as consummately refined as for the Ref. 5098. Departing from a 1925 Chronometro Gondolo model, the case design was subtly reworked, the contours delicately retouched, and the silhouette gently cambered for a snug, comfortable fit on the wrist. The curvature is also repeated in the crystal and display back. It takes advanced technologies and rare skills to shape sapphire crystal, an extremely hard mineral, to three-dimensional contours. The result is an aesthetically appealing case – available exclusively in platinum – with a beautifully balanced look and the functionality needed to protect the precious manufacture movement inside. Like all current Patek Philippe models with platinum cases, the new Chronometro Gondolo Ref. 5098P has a small diamond discreetly set between the lugs at 6 o’clock. The watch is worn on a matte black alligator strap with a platinum prong buckle inspired by its historic predecessor.