Patek Philippe

In the early 2000s, Patek Philippe began a new initiative known as the Advanced Research project. This initiative was conceived to channel their creativity while researching new materials, new manufacturing technologies and new conceptual principles resulting in improved movements and functionality of their timepieces.

In 2005, the first timepiece of the Advanced Research endeavor materialized in the form of the reference 5250 Annual Calendar. The initial trio of Advanced Research models centered around annual calendars, paving the way for the subsequent release of the reference 5550, a groundbreaking perpetual calendar, in 2011. Limited to 300 pieces and based on the revered reference 5140, the 5550 Perpetual Calendar not only indicates the time of day but also features a 24-hour indicator, day, month, date with leap year indicator, and moon phases. Housed in a polished platinum case with a metallic satin-finished dial, the 5550 exudes a technical aesthetic that perfectly complements its innovative nature. The silvered dial, coupled with the platinum case, imparts a sleek and modern appearance, while the gold hands and indices introduce a touch of warmth and character.

More than a perpetual calendar, the wristwatch incorporates the patented Oscillomax ensemble. This ensemble comprises the Gyromax-Si balance in Silinvar and 24K gold, the Spiromax balance in Silinvar, and a refined Pulsomax escapement. A notable result of the accrued efficiency brought by the new Oscillomax ensemble, the power reserve of the watch was increased by nearly 50%, from 48 hours to 70 hours and the movement accuracy was greatly increased.This new balance wheel was an evolution of Patek’s original Gyromax balance design, which is why the release of the ref. 5550G coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Gyromax’s creation.