Patek PhilippeAnnual Calendar

The Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Ref. 5056P was voted ‘Patek of the Decade’ by a well-regarded cadre of collectors in 2004, and it is still just as wonderful. Produced in a limited production of 950, the 37mm case, perfectly proportioned in platinum, houses annual calendar, moon phase and power reserve complications. It is worth noting that fewer than the intended 950 are thought to have been produced.

The watch boasts Calibre 315/299, Geneva Seal hallmark, 35 jewels, Gyromax balance, 21k gold rotor and a slate-grey dial with luminescent, white gold applied Roman numerals which sparkle pleasingly in the light. The dial features an outer railway minute track, sweep seconds, two subdials for day and month, aperture for the date and moon-phases and a sector for power-reserve indication. The platinum case is formed in two parts.

The piece has a screw-down, exhibition caseback and Patek Phillipe & Co buckle. Case, dial and movement are signed.

Perhaps our favourite feature of this magnificent watch is the tiny Top Wesselton diamond (0.02 carats) positioned in the case between the lugs at 6. The practice of setting a diminutive diamond in Patek’s platinum-cased watches began around the time that the 5056P entered production around 1998. This is really only noticeable on the wrist when it catches the light. Something of a secret signature, it provides an intimate connection between wearer and watch.

The watch is presented for sale in excellent overall condition, with exceedingly light wear to the case, caseback and deployant, commensurate with age and authenticity. The box and papers are pristine.

All watches offered for sale are searched and cleared against The Watch Register database and a certificate is available to the winning bidder upon request.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Watch Collecting requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details .