patrick_y[PuristSPro Moderator]
28404
I'm one of the rare people who love the 6000...
Jul 22, 2014,12:32 PM
First of all; welcome. Welcome welcome welcome! Welcome to PuristSPro!
Secondly, I think buying a Patek Philippe is a very personal decision. Usually executed by strong-minded and decisive individuals who have good sense and good taste on their own. I'm slipping into the minority on this one, as Patek Philippes become more mainstream. Never bad to ask the experts for their opinions though.
Third, you're all over the map. While it's never bad to ask an expert for his opinion, you do need to give us an idea of what kind of person you are... The 5297G is very different from the 6000G. For instance, the 5297G is covered with diamonds... I think it's a very simple decision; do I want a jeweled showy watch? Or not?
I suppose you could've made a mistake and meant the 5296G, which is a closer watch to the 6000G.
You have to be a special person to like the 6000. Most people don't like it because the dial design with the date looks cumbersome. And I can see why.
So if you like it. Go for it. (maybe involve your son in the process)
Mechanically, the 6000 is much more interesting than the 5297. I'd consider the 5296 as it is (especially with the sector dial) is a beautiful watch.
The 5297 (and 5296) has a more common 324 movement whereas the 6000 has the super-cool (opinion) and thin (fact) 240 caliber with a awesome (opinion) micro rotor. The micro rotor is cool to look at; but will be less efficient at winding the watch. So if you're dead, or sit at a desk everyday, you may not be generating enough energy. Also, you shouldn't exercise with your watch on your wrist, but if you walk to work and are on your feet and make a lot of hand gestures, you'll be fine with the 240 caliber.
The 324 movement theoretically may be more accurate in theory (higher vibrations per hour), but in reality, they're both about the same.
You'll also notice all 240-caliber models with a second hand will have the sub-dial seconds at around 4 o'clock. Just a quirk of the movement.
The 6000 is also a great deal because it comes with the deployment clasp which you have to pay extra to get on the 5297 and get a new strap on the 5297 (the straps are different based on the buckle/clasp).
You mention your son will inherit this watch. I think the smartest thing to do is to see if he likes the dial design of the 6000. You want him to wear it. Remind your son to keep in mind that he will likely be wearing this watch 40+ years from now and to think about fashions, style, and trends. He should be thinking objectively and conservatively. Who knows, maybe in 40 years we don't wear watches at all?
I personally love the 6000 and I would get it over the 5297. Over the 5296G with sector dial? That'd be a harder choice.
There you have it; some facts, some opinions. I probably thought for a dozen minutes in this response. So let me know what you choose!
And again, welcome!