The Patek Philippe caliber 110 is a manually wound mechanical movement that played a significant role in the brand’s production of small, elegant timepieces during the mid-20th century. Compact yet expertly constructed, this caliber is part of Patek Philippe’s lineage of fine hand-wound movements used in refined wristwatches, particularly for ladies and smaller men's models.

Overview of the Caliber 110

The caliber 110 was introduced as a successor or alternative to other small-sized Patek Philippe calibers like the 105. It measures approximately 18 mm in diameter (around 8 lignes), making it suitable for slim, mid-sized cases. Like all Patek Philippe calibers from this era, the 110 was built for precision, durability, and ease of maintenance—qualities that made it an ideal choice for elegant timepieces without sacrificing horological integrity.

This movement appeared most commonly in watches produced during the 1950s to early 1970s, typically housed in gold cases (yellow, rose, or white) and used in Calatrava-style or oval-shaped references.

Technical Characteristics

Despite its compact dimensions, the 110 is a robust and beautifully finished caliber. Key specifications often include:

• Type: Manual winding

• Diameter: ~18.0 mm (8 lignes)

• Height: ~3.0 mm

• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz)

• Power reserve: Approx. 40 hours

• Jewels: Typically 18

• Finishing: Traditional Geneva striping, polished screws, perlage on the main plate, beveled edges

The movement also features Patek Philippe’s signature high-quality regulation, sometimes with fine adjustment systems that allow for greater precision in timekeeping. The layout is efficient and symmetrical, allowing for balanced aesthetics even inside such a small movement.

Use in Patek Philippe Watches

The caliber 110 was frequently used in ladies’ watches and unisex dress models, many of which are now desirable vintage pieces. These watches typically featured:

• Manual winding operation

• Time-only function (hours and minutes, sometimes with small seconds)

• Ultra-clean dials, often with applied indices or minimalist markers

• Precious metal construction (usually 18k gold or platinum)

You’ll also find the 110 powering oval, rectangular, and cushion-shaped cases—a trend particularly popular during the late 1960s.

Collectibility and Legacy

While the 110 may not share the spotlight with Patek Philippe’s grand complications or iconic automatic movements, it remains a respected and collectible caliber, especially among vintage watch enthusiasts. It represents a period when mechanical excellence was applied across the entire product line—even in compact, understated references.

Collectors value these watches for their restrained elegance, long-term durability, and connection to Patek Philippe’s golden era of manual watchmaking.

Maintenance and Servicing

As with other vintage calibers from this era, servicing the 110 requires care and expertise. Though it is mechanically straightforward compared to complicated movements, its small scale demands precision. Original parts may be limited, so regular servicing by a watchmaker experienced in vintage Patek Philippe timepieces is essential.

When properly maintained, the 110 remains an accurate and reliable movement, reflecting the brand’s emphasis on lasting quality.

Conclusion

The Patek Philippe caliber 110 is a quiet achiever in the brand’s storied history. Designed for smaller, elegant wristwatches, it embodies Patek Philippe’s philosophy that no detail is too small for perfection. With excellent construction, tasteful finishing, and lasting performance, the 110 holds a special place in the world of vintage watch collecting—especially for those who appreciate subtle sophistication and enduring mechanical beauty.