Rare, Striking and Catching, Annual Calendar Automatic Wristwatch, in White Gold, Black Dial, With Extract from The Archives, Reference 5035G
Lot Description Model: Annual Calendar
Reference: 5035G
Case Material: White Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 2000
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 315/198
Case N°: 4100901
Movement N°: 3132268
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from The Archives
When Patek Philippe introduced the reference 5035 in 1996, marking the world’s inaugural Annual Calendar wristwatch, it curiously omitted a complication that had been a hallmark of its perpetual calendars for seventy years: the moon phase indicator. However, this absence was admirably replaced by another intriguing feature. The upgraded movement performed something deceptively simple, automatically adjusting the calendar for months with 30 or 31 days, requiring the owner to manually adjust the date only once a year at the end of February. This innovation garnered immediate attention and earned the prestigious title of “watch of the year” from the Swiss magazine Montres Passion during a time when such accolades were scarce. The production included 2500 pieces for each metal variant: yellow, white, and pink gold, as well as platinum. While the dial remained highly legible and perfectly balanced, certain new features were introduced to distinguish the watch from a perpetual calendar. For instance, the date is not indicated by an auxiliary dial, as seen in many perpetual calendars, but rather by the number in an aperture at six o’clock, enhancing readability. Another unique feature is the presence of a center seconds hand, a rarity among perpetual calendars. The bold Roman numerals and hands are equipped with a luminous coating, a rarity in Patek timepieces. As a final touch, for the first time, an IV is used instead of a IIII at the four-o’clock position. Preserved in remarkable condition, the current white-gold example with concave lugs and a screwed-down transparent case back exhibits pleasing proportions and deep hallmarks. The black dial adds a touch of beauty to the overall aesthetics.
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