patek philippe perpetual calendar 5059 | Patek Philippe perpetual calendar 5039j

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059 is more than just a watch; it's a statement, a legacy, a testament to the enduring allure of haute horlogerie. Within the vast and impressive landscape of Patek Philippe's offerings, the 5059 stands out as a particularly captivating model, renowned for its sophisticated complications, elegant design, and the sheer artistry that goes into its creation. This article delves into the intricacies of the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059, exploring its history, features, value, and its place within the broader context of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar lineage.

A Legacy of Perpetual Motion: The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendarpatek philippe perpetual calendar 5059

Before examining the 5059 in detail, it's essential to understand the significance of the perpetual calendar complication itself. A perpetual calendar is a horological marvel that automatically adjusts for the varying lengths of months, including leap years. Unlike a standard calendar watch that requires manual correction several times a year, a perpetual calendar, once properly set, will accurately display the date, day, month, and often the moon phase, for decades – even centuries, theoretically – without intervention. This intricate mechanism requires hundreds of tiny parts, meticulously assembled and calibrated to ensure flawless operation.

Patek Philippe has long been at the forefront of perpetual calendar innovation, producing some of the most revered and technically advanced examples in the world. From the early pocket watches to the iconic wristwatches of the 20th and 21st centuries, Patek Philippe has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible, solidifying its reputation as a master of the perpetual calendar. Models like the 5039, a predecessor to the 5059, and the complex perpetual calendar chronographs, stand as shining examples of this horological mastery. The Patek Philippe perpetual calendar price reflects this level of craftsmanship, innovation, and historical significance.

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059: A Closer Look

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059 is a refined and elegant timepiece that embodies the classic Patek Philippe aesthetic. While production ceased in 2006, its enduring appeal continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts. Here's a detailed breakdown of its key features:

* Case: The 5059 typically features a round case, available in various precious metals, including yellow gold (5059J), white gold (5059G), and platinum (5059P). The case size is relatively modest, typically around 36mm, contributing to its understated elegance and comfortable wearability. The case is often decorated with a stepped bezel, adding a subtle touch of sophistication.

* Dial: The dial is a crucial element of the 5059's appeal. It's meticulously crafted and thoughtfully designed to ensure optimal legibility despite the complexity of the complications. The dial typically features:

* A central display: Showing the hours, minutes, and seconds.

* Subsidiary dials: Displaying the day of the week, the date, and the month.

* A moon phase indicator: Usually located at the 6 o'clock position, displaying the current phase of the moon.

* A leap year indicator: Often discreetly placed, indicating whether the current year is a leap year.

The dials come in various colors, with silvered opaline being a common choice. The use of applied Breguet numerals or Roman numerals adds to the watch's classic character. The hands are often leaf-shaped or baton-shaped, perfectly complementing the overall design.

* Movement: The heart of the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059 is its exquisitely finished movement. Typically, it houses the Caliber 315 S QR, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision, reliability, and beauty. The movement is visible through a sapphire crystal case back, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate workings of the perpetual calendar mechanism. The movement is meticulously hand-finished, with features like Geneva stripes, perlage, and hand-beveled edges. Each component is carefully inspected and adjusted to ensure optimal performance.

* Correctors: The perpetual calendar mechanism requires correctors to adjust the various calendar indications. These are typically located on the side of the case and are used to advance the day, date, month, and moon phase.

* Retrograde Date Hand: A signature feature of the 5059 is its retrograde date hand. Instead of a circular subdial, the date is indicated by a hand that travels along an arc. At the end of the month, the hand instantly jumps back to the beginning of the arc, indicating the first day of the following month. This retrograde mechanism adds a unique visual element to the watch and showcases Patek Philippe's ingenuity.

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5059J: A Sought-After Variant