Unboxing The Watch That Made Patek Famous: For Less Than $1000, An Automatic For True Collectors

Today I unbox my latest acquisition, after almost half a year of watch hunting. But there's a plot twist! While researching this timepiece, I discovered something quite astounding. Aside from being, in my opinion, Gerald Genta's greatest work, inside this watch is the key to what made Patek the powerhouse brand it is today. So much so that its influence can be found in the Patek Calatrava, the Nautilus, and even super high-end, complication-heavy timepieces like Perpetual Calendars, Grand Complications, and Worldtimers. But the best thing is, you can own this missing link of horological evolution for less than $1000 on the used market. And it also happens to be one of the most elegant and comfortable watches I've ever experienced. Join me for another uniquely Urban Gentry episode for a special watch unboxing that is unexpected, underrated, and above all, only for the true watch enthusiast. What do you think about the watch featured in this video? And what's your favorite automatic under $1000? Please share in the comments!
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[@quanchu2984]

I know you will never quit collecting watches !

[@skipinkoreaable]

He'll do that on the day Hugo becomes a vegetarian.

[@davidcrandall4958]

It's possible to stop collecting and ramp up our interest in Horology as I am also doing! I just can't sell my Affordable watches without going broke

[@paleriderpublishing451]

I think he’s going through a2/5 life crisis. I think he going to realize that getting rid of watches suck and he’s going to expand his collection to a hundred

[@brysonthor]

I love how slim that is. Slimness is often overlooked but I find it to be one of the most attractive features in a watch

[@johnhorton2627]

That's the stand out feature for me too! I'm a 70s guy when wafer slim watches ruled. A lot of people don't like " the kitchen sink " strapped to their wrist

[@gr-zj1yp]

Just when it seems there is little to discover, TGV you surprise, inform, and infectiously share your passion for a deeper appreciation and respect for how a beautiful and elegant timepiece has a world and story unearthed by your video! Thank you!

[@Number_006]

Congrats TGV. Really a stunning timepiece - and good on you for the deep dive into the watch's history. What a coup! Aquiring a Genta design without paying the Patek "prestige" tax. Genius!

[@Me7roiD]

Gorgeous watch - great job tracking it down and thanks for sharing so much of the history behind it and both brands. I've been casting glances at UG for quite a while now and just as I was about to pull the trigger on an early Compax, my attention was instead caught by a pre-WW2 Pierce that I've now had restored to its former glory and absolutely adore. There's just something special about vintage timepieces... and yes, you may stop "collecting" per se, but I'm sure you'll never step just enjoying those.

[@johnbonanni1731]

I said the same thing of not collecting watches but, I couldn't hold back and I still collect watches of 200 homage and luxury watches. GREAT introduction of your grandfather TGV.

[@simplewatchtalks]

I found the cure to this hobby! I bought a Casio Lineage and I am grinning like a child! Hang in there brothers, you’ll find your perfect watch very soon!

[@theurbangentry]

Off to google it! Nothing brings as much fun and joy as the love for a good Casio. Enjoy and thank you for sharing that. Best regards, TGV

[@HRM.H]

I found my perfect everyday watch about half a year ago. Its a Credor Signo with calibre 8J86. Its a lovely 35mm dress piece, but it also has 100 meter water resistance and a jubilee style bracelet.

[@gary2632]

An absolute stunner and to quote your good self “Pure Class”. I absolutely love the hidden gems that you bring to light as well as the detailed insight you accompany them with. Wishing you well wearing your latest purchase. Thank you, onward and upward 🙏

[@LazyGrayF0x]

You don’t need to collect, just bring more stories, you’re an excellent story teller

[@heikowallauer]

Good evening TGV! Thanks for this piece of horological history. Watchhunting makes new aquisitions so much more enjoyable! As for the White Shadow, a great value proposition when we look at the dress watch category. And we have take into account that even the affordable watch companies raised their prices over the last years. Around 1.000€ the Nomos Club is growing on me, but I'm considering also the version with the steel bracelet that is around 2.600€. Have a great evening!

[@SKarlo051]

At that price point I'd look at something else from a more mainstream brand be it German or Swiss... If you get bored by the Nomos the used market on them is soft at best.

[@joshuapugh3873]

Hello! I was wondering if you would consider doing a video on vintage King Seiko, specifically the 44, 45, and 56 KS. The history behind King Seiko vs Grand Seiko and the Suwa and Daini factories is awesome. Regardless of the awesome history, these vintage pieces offer in my opinion the most affordable way to get into Grand Seiko esque pieces, as these watches are very similar to the 44 GS of that period with the beautiful grammar of design styling, but for half the cost. The workmanship of these watches are incredible, and they represent a large collector community. I would love to see a review, or just your thoughts on the world of vintage King Seiko!

[@wngimageanddesign9546]

The White Shadow is an example of stunning design language. Perfect on so many counts. It doesn't have a bad angle.

[@alexm2113]

What a gorgeous blue dial on that! Stunning acquisition TGV, enjoy it in good health.

[@HRM.H]

If you look beyond the latest and greatest some incredible value can be had. Stunning watch, congratulations on the find! Sometimes the hunt is part of the fun.

[@theurbangentry]

EVERYTHING in the comment I could not agree more. Spot on my friend, thank you. O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@kyeungminkim2018]

Man.. I’m now really obsessed with the shadow line. Loved the design of Patek’s ellipse. It’s not a common taste I think but, as a watch enthusiast I don’t really care about other peoples perspectives. Thanks again for the great video!

[@THX-C]

That was a fascinating look at the White Shadow and of the Gérard Berret/Gérard Genta connections between it and the Ellipse. Micro-rotors are really cool. Great vid, TGV!

[@mattys1467]

Another horological history feast 😊 For me, the white dial is just a class above. It will never look dated or out of place. It is, frankly, a design classic that needs to be preserved in a museum. As for trends, I think dress watches are a while off from being on point which is another great reason to have them and keep some semblance of individuality from the masses.

[@andrewdavidsonofficial]

You always learn something new by watching an Urban Gentry video. This was no exception. Keep it up TGV!

[@nilssaugen2303]

OOOh that was a sweet watch with a wonderful pedigree - thx for telling the story and congratz with a wonderful new timepiece!

[@mitchellwest4205]

I recently snagged what I see as my grail watch--a Ulysse Narin 333-77-7. Combines a perpetual calendar function with a blue flinque dial, all packaged in a dive watch. The blue dial of this new watch and talk about Patek's perpetual calendar makes this at least tangentially relevant to this video. But in truth, I just want to see a review of my new-to-me watch, haha.

[@johnstyron6543]

Absolutely classic TGV. That is a keeper in my opinion. I’ve had an obsession for this case shape for a long time but just haven’t found the right one. Congrats my friend! 🍾 🥂

[@PSQWatches]

Thanks for quoting me. They are really great watches with such a cool movement (and history)!

[@theurbangentry]

Pasquale! Grazie ancora per il tuo aiuto. Best regards, T.

[@ricardochaveste7367]

Stunning pieces and the history behind this impressive underrated piece make this much easier to appreciate more. Congratulations, my friend ,the blue is amazing.. I say keep both a little bit longer and then diced if you want to keep both. What great find.until next time...

[@robbiedazzler6358]

You couldn’t wait to pair that watch with the shirt could you!!?? Well done and great horological lesson 😀

[@thomearthman7760]

I saw a comment online today saying tgv was a pompous ass. I'm here to say I get 0 pomp from you. I think your videos are consise and informative. This is one of my favorite watch channels. Respect to you from California. Keep up the good work, Bud. 👍

[@bardiaeshghi4038]

You really have an eye, TGV. I never thought I'd entertain even thinking about such a watch. But I watched these 15 minutes totally enchanted and engaged.

[@Ishabu7]

Thank you so much TGV for such a great unboxing video! The watch that you have reviewed today is absolutely “pure class”! It matches quite well with your shirt that you wore in the video! I love that shirt that you have wore! Beautiful blue check pattern! Stay healthy and well as always! Enjoy your new watch acquisition! Your watch enthusiast, (Nicholas L) 🦖🦖🦖🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻⏱️⏱️⏱️🥂🥂🥂

[@theurbangentry]

Grazie mille fratello. I hope this finds you well too. Your support and kind words never go unnoticed. Onwards and ever upwards! T.

[@MERKAMGCLK]

I am so honored to have inherited from my late Father a rose gold Universal Geneve.

[@nightwristwatchman3129]

Always love any Frasier references and Niles was the classiest of them all, sipping champagne alone wearing his Ellipse. Love that UG, every day is a school day with The Urban Gentry 🙌🙌

[@thezieg]

The Mondrian lines in the background, the matching of the blue watch face with your blue geometric pattern shirt, the tight transitions from still to moving images, and the impeccable narration: This is one of your best videos yet. Thank you! (And not a single Tom Cruise image; good for you!)

[@kyledriscollmusic]

I like your newest UG better because it has a more cohesive overall design, just ellipse and bracelet, no interruptions in the shapes, plus mesh is so comfy

[@markusbabicz2821]

Beside the absolut interesting facts around the watch and the movement best is to see your pure pleasure and gratification to get this timepiece! Keep the good work going and greetings from Germany!

[@MichaelAguila]

They're different enough that you should keep both. 💪 Always great to see your excitement over a new discovery, and don't forget to keep bringing Hugo back. 😬

[@jdwxflyer]

Best intro in the business! Great vid TGV…

[@Bhethar]

Ciao Tristano! As Davide Cecchini would say, TOP! Your doing the community a favour by introducing us to such gorgeous underrepresented capolavori!

[@davidcrandall4958]

You seem to be doing exactly what I am doing! Trading several lower end watches for better Watches while maintaining my interest in watches! No one believes me either!

[@davidcrandall4958]

If I wanted higher tier watches I would have to sell my Affordable watches and it is impossible to sell these without going broke!

[@Chrissepisje]

Ahhhh.... The power of the Niles is strong in you, I've always guessed it. Heh. Nice video about watches, for sure, but thank you ever so much for that glimpse of "Frasier, a cultural history". I might have found myself some light reading for the autumn.

[@ticktalking]

Congrats TGV on your latest acquisition... its mind blowing with the height of 5mm UG still managed to put on applied indices... can see your excitement to put it on your wrist by your matching shirt with the dial color... 😄

[@MhonsterPlayer]

Recently managed to acquire a magnificent unpolished 866101 with blue dial along with a regular unpolished white dial to harvest the Gay Frères bracelet. I was a bit worried about the sound of the microrotor since it's my first one but I guess since you mentionned it, it is absolutely normal. GIlt/Golden/White Shadow are so understated. I'd keep your roman dial one for now. They are getting a lot harder and lot more expensive to find a good/excellent conditions and you might regret it further down the road. Those watches have so much to offer ! Historical time pieces! Also wanted to thank you for opening my eyes years ago on vintage pieces. You indirectly helped me build my perfect 'entry level' collection and learn a lot hunting for specific pieces. I am happy to finally step it up with my first rolex in the upcoming months. Cheers

[@dannysimenauer5745]

TGV, I was never interested in the Golden Ellipse, but the White Shadow on the mesh bracelet is stunning!

[@sugatonemusic]

I literally bought a White Shadow this morning thanks to your 1st video on this... seeing this vid was a great coincidence

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

Ha ha…I don’t live far from Hartlepool..that Blackadder clip brings back memories 🙈

[@claudiogobber]

The quality of your content is ever growing TGV .. Bravissimo

[@elvindelgado1523]

TGV, Gracias! I have been watching you and Marc for the last three weeks and its motivated me to break out my collection. I had put away my mostly Rado collection but looking to add a few more models. Gracias!

[@anickname6960]

pure class as always and just amazing storytelling in this one especially. And that UG is an absolute beauty. Thanks for the excellent content, just a joy to watch something so well put together.

[@GodisGracious1]

white shadow with roman numerals is one of the most beautiful watches i have ever seen

[@ExpeditedProductions]

The urge and the thrill of the hunt is just too strong! If one has only one watch at a time and still is always hunting and exchanging even just that one piece…… the journey still isn’t over😂 The Universal Geneve White Shadow is truly iconic. I think I like the white dial with Romans better but both are exquisite. The backstory and education was, as always, was enthralling and eye opening. Thank you so very much for all the work and research you put into your videos. Absolutely the cream of the crop. Expertly well done. Keep doing what you do, Tristano. Onward and upward, my friend. Be well

[@mackledee]

Gorgeous piece. I think you can relax the "rules" in this case. There's room for both. Maybe the White Shadow becomes your niche and you collect all the variations.

[@TopStrikerMaverick]

I love this camera orientation reminds me of the New York days!

[@pvelasquezchilet]

Excellent TGV, as I know White Shadow 66 UG was the thinnest automatic watch in the world for several years(1966-1978), I already have one

[@epicv7dayz824]

Stunner mate! Pieces like that makes your heart ache and bank balance lighter. Bravo 🙌

[@DaveMGmovies]

I missed out on a white shadow earlier in the year. It's one that got away and I'm still kicking myself. Then again, so many watches in the world... Great video TGV. As always.

[@trappedindc8678]

YES!!! Frasier. The subtly funniest and/or side splitting funny shows at different times ever made. Brilliant every damn episode.

[@RandallSlick]

I do like UGs. Just something about them, presumably because they're gone. Both are lovely, but your white dial Roman though is a thing to behold. That'd be my keeper, although a red XII would have been so much cooler. Good luck deciding.

[@carlosc3768]

Watch videos don't get any better than this one...

[@adk7962]

That is a stunning watch. At this point you are now acquiring special pieces versus collecting which seems less selective. Thanks for the great video as usual.

[@shaojie12]

Wow I can only say congrats! A very fine piece you have

[@Nnnope]

That blue white shadow is absolutely stunning, definitely keep that one, the oval dial looks incredibly clean and tasteful compared to the encased oval. Also: "well, great, now I want one too" hahaha

[@DecemberNames]

Thank you for another great video mate. I enjoyed every second. Please keep it coming.

[@paulbugoni2846]

Funny I started watching the Italian watch channels literally this weekend so I could keep my Italian sharp. Grazie T! Funny how the new Mido TV Big Date has a similar case shape.

[@franciscofonseca6328]

TGV amazing content. Number one watch channel. Different stuff, ecletic and super tastefull. Btw teaching us a thing or two in the process... Bravo

[@ge48421]

A great example of well executed minimalism I can get behind. It's completely its own thing, and unlike the Royal Oak the design has not be done to death.

[@Apophisad]

Excellent choice. And yo answer your question,yes,I think the integrated bracelet trend on dress watches is coming back..and I help it with my Quartz Omega Constellation Manhattan from my collection

[@michaeloneil3653]

Always love the deep dives into history!!!! Quite fascinating about movement architecture and how its used so many different ways

[@alvinmick218]

Always pure joy to see your latest video and watch acquisition! So many watches, so little time (pun intended)! Well done 🥃

[@frankidoodle]

one more time, a great watch-style and -knowledge educational video while watching with fun 👍

[@1114gabby]

Thats one of those "cant pass it up watch". I would keep both because they are so amazing. A great watch and I doubt I find one somehow.

[@robspadre5519]

Absolutely fascinating instalment, TGV - thank you! Classic.

[@xjetpilot]

TGV, nice new acquisition. Very classy and matches your style perfectly. Best wishes.

[@ilfordino-fordfiestatutori8725]

5:15 "che burino" ahahahha, made me laugh!

[@river1duck]

Congrats TGV! Nothing beats finding the watch you want at the price point that you are comfortable with. If you do not mind, on your next video can you go thru how you decide which watches to sell (function, style, or price - also does the criteria change 'day by day') as you add new additions. Thanks!

[@aircoolersonly]

No cutting corners in your amazing background checks and always super produced videos from you TGV. Not my style of watch, but i must say, that the integrated Milanese band is quite elegant. Thanks for the history lesson. All The Best - Michael

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Michael, you are a true gent. Always appreciated. Best regards, TGV

[@alexkastano96]

Universal Jeneve is my favorite brand vintage brand that i never wear 🤪 , i am a tall dude with BIG wrist....you won't believe how many times i was sitting down at the desk and my tears was dropped on a beautiful UJ piece that looked like girl's watch on my wrists...😭

[@in_sympathy]

Keep this one - it’s an absolute perfection

[@pawepanfilewicz988]

Thanks for another great video TGV. White Shadow is a real beauty indeed. Until now, I only have seen two of them in real, both really good looking pieces.

[@Uncle.Max009]

How I wish Universal Geneve will be revived to bring back some of those classic designs like the tri compax and among others. Love that dressy elippse look aesthetic. Awesome video TGV. All the best- LJ.

[@Ckennett89]

I support keeping the blue dial 👍🏼

[@rasmusalbrektsen4292]

Another wonderful video (still miss the original intro and outro with the Centurion, though)! The White Shadow has, in my opinion, more edge, is more unique.

[@jamesfussey2658]

"We're not talking about Panerai! What is wrong with me?!" 😂😂😂 Pure passion for the hobby 👌🏼🙏🏼❤ Another outstanding video sir

[@mickrotherham4954]

Hi TGV, if you decide to let the white shadow go on the leather strap I would take this in a heart beat. Thank you for your content as always. Regards, Michael

[@khronokraze]

Great treasure hunt. It's a nice blue.. almost looks like it has a hint of purple at some angles. When you see Keanu, don't be too shy to point out how you appreciate his homage watch to yours.

[@coetroy]

Thank you for all your amazing content! I would have never known this incredible history if not for your passion for watches. Side note: I vote for keeping the blue dial, the white is amazing but that blue dialed piece is ridiculously awesome!

[@UnseenHero]

When I started watching I thought it was deja Vue since earlier this year you got the Roman numeral dial, only to find out you got another reference haha. This new integrated bracelet looks much more similar to the ellipse. Really cool. Thanks for sharing!

[@joeskater5782]

Hey TGV! Love your videos. Especially how bold you are with sizing down your collection. Smart move! Cheers!

[@TheShane209]

A new TGV video is what I needed for this horribly Sleep Deprived weekend and week I’ve had

[@theurbangentry]

Sorry to hear that, I hope the next weekend is better! Hang in there my friend, thank you for the support. Best regards, TGV

[@77cjam]

What a stunning watch. Love dress watches. No wonder you are over the moon about getting it. As usual, great history and visuals and as always superb audio and soundtrack. Love the Bl'adder reference (as George would say) and who wouldn't use the word, "Wibble" to get out of doing something....

[@theurbangentry]

Wibble. 😉

[@extremejoy]

This is kind of funny that I’m actually wearing my Panerai while watching this video & I haven’t worn it for about a year! 😂

[@wayneross304]

Always fascinating, varied and honest content, much appreciated. I found a similar early watch - gilt shadow, integrated bracelet and dauphine hands - and you have to appreciate the design and wearability of such a watch and the technology of its time. I'm looking forward to watching what your next watch adventure is - no Swatch x Blancpain I'm sure!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you! 🙏 🙏🙏 Love the gilt Shadow too, they are all just so collectable. Glad to have you with us, you have greta taste. Best regards, TGV

[@gtoexpress8111]

Video on point as usual SIR

[@Javi_C]

Congratulations on the new piece TGV! 🎉

[@lshin80]

From burino to dapper: TGV, man of international bee's knees 😂

[@johnsinclair2672]

Excellent presentation and detail. Thank you.

[@stonehenges5722]

Best Seller from 1987. Woods/Dennehy movie had a Patek scene. I don't remember which Patek it was. Great movie and worth the watch.

[@BrianSinai]

Great video. Beautiful watch. You could just 'dive into' that blue..

[@alfa71omega]

Bravo Tristano, i tuoi video sono sempre magnifici!

[@maritimuse9127]

Well I know what my next dress watch will be now! I want a UG Polerouter and that blue White Shadow is just such a beautiful timepiece.

[@georgeii2629]

You often have very good and interesting thoughts on watch history. That's why I can put myself in your reports and enjoy them. Example Hanhart, and now also the ellipse from Patek. In addition, Universal Geneve is also a legendary brand. Unfortunately, today's watch madness has nothing to do with the great enthusiasm for watches back then.

[@Stanjara]

Pure class TGV.

[@carlexplores8709]

Another wonderfully researched video! Love the shirt too!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Carl! Best regards, TGV

[@GuyVanderAa]

Stunning watch, love the blue dial! Your videos are so insightful and always give me such positive energy. Thank you good sir. 🙏

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you, that makes me happy to hear that! 🙏😎 Best regards, TGV