Patek Philippe

• cal. R27 PS automatic nickel lever movement stamped with the Geneva seal, 39 jewels, Gyromax balance, minute repeating on two gongs • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, subsidiary dial for constant seconds • 18k yellow gold case, minute repeating slide to the band, sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle

Rare and highly recommended! Automatic movement running while cataloguing. Minute repeating functioning is in working order, well paced with nice and harmonised rhythm and tone. Dial is nice and intact. Case and buckle with surface scuffs from normal wear. Strong hallmarks with no signs of repolishing. Overall appears in very good condition. **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species, please refer to important notices for further information**.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

With a Patek Philippe extract from the Archives confirming production with enamel dial in 2002 and sale on December 10th, 2002 and a presentation box with outer packaging.

The Ref. 5079 was launched in 2002 and produced in very small quantities until it was discontinued in 2005.  This exceptional minute repeating wristwatch features the "cathedral" gongs – first used in the firm's 2001 Sky Moon Tourbillon.  These gongs are much longer and wrap around almost twice, resulting in a richer, grander chime.  The inconspicuous slide in the case band appears seamless, sculpted from 18k yellow gold and harmoniously fitted into the impressive 42mm case.  An interchangeable sapphire crystal case back transforms the timepiece, allowing the wearer an intimate glance at the intricate caliber R 27 PS.  This enlarged case creates the perfect acoustic conditions for the "cathedral" gongs to reverberate and captivate their audience.  To complete the elegant and classic styling, the pristine white enamel dial is delineated with Roman numerals and railway-track minute graduation.   

The result is a pleasing, yet simple aesthetic that conceals the technical difficulty and masterful engineering required for this exacting high complication.  It is well known that before any minute repeating wristwatch leaves the Patek Philippe manufacture, Philippe Stern personally inspects and deems the minute repeater worthy of chiming the hours.  Thus, the connoisseur in his own contemplative silence can fully appreciate what distinguishes Patek Philippe from so many others – that majestic, inimitable striking that conjures traditional artistry in its purest, most coveted form.