Patek Philippe

Launched in 1994 the reference 5016 is an aggregation of Patek Philippe's entirety, condensing years of knowledge and dedication of traditional watchmaking into one spectacular timepiece. It assembles the three most important complications in watchmaking, namely the perpetual calendar, minute repeater and tourbillon under one movement, and even topping it off with a retrograde date. It was the most complicated wristwatch produced by Patek Philippe, before the launch of the Sky-Moon in 2001. Still, the reference 5016 is held in high regards by watch collectors for the legacy it carries. Approximately only 200 pieces of the reference 5016 were produced in all four rare metals, often in distinctive dial configurations, rendering the present reference an extremely rare treasure to come by.

The present watch is truly extraordinary and is possibly one of its kind. Only for the most important clients and collectors would Patek Philippe address customization to the dial of their watches. To be noticed immediately the retrograde date indication, as well as the subsidiary seconds hand are highlighted in red, displaying a striking contrast with the subtle black dial. Along with the reference 5013, 5050 and 5059, reference 5016 would be the only Patek Philippe wristwatch at that time to display a retrograde calendar layout, and deems even more breathtaking with the touch of red. An interesting feature on the dial is its movement number being displayed under the subsidiary seconds, a trait of other classic tourbillon complications such as the reference 3939. The three piece case on the other hand is forged in white gold, and similar to the reference 2499, it is reminiscent of traditional Patek Philippe timepieces for its round shape and fluted lugs. The mechanical movement calibre RTO 27 PS QR is composed of a painstaking 506 parts, which promotes a perpetual calendar, minute repeater and tourbillon. The hand-finished movement along with the tourbillon can be marvelled through the sapphire display back, and to consider a movement of this level to be housed in a petite 37 mm case only would be an astounding achievement. A slide piece on the left side of the watch activates the minute repeater, which chimes the accurate time with the highest quality, clarity and serenity.

Sotheby’s is honoured to be entrusted by the consigner to offer this grand complication with red detailing. Exquisite and exceptional, the present reference 5016 is an incredibly rare and important timepiece to come by in auction, and will definitely make a splendid addition to the collection of the most discerning watch connoisseur.