In 1996, Patek Philippe made one of its most brilliant strategic moves— the introduction and development of the Annual Calendar compilation. Patek recognized a gap in offerings, between the simple and (relatively) accessible Calatrava classic dress watches, and the complicated, and in turn, highly expensive, Grand Complications. The so called “Annual Calendar” bridged the gap between these two price points, offering a natural progression for collectors looking to access a Patek complication at a more accessible price point. The Annual Calendar needs adjusting just once per year. This change allows the movement to be far more economical to produce, easier to service, and cheaper to purchase.
The inaugural Reference 5035 Annual Calendar of 1996 was a tremendous success, and ever since, Patek’s Annual Calendars have been a popular favorite. The Reference 5146 shown here today is the natural extension of the 5035’s original design. A 39mm case, slim profile and sapphire crystal combine traditional proportions with contemporary materials. This recipe makes for a timeless dress piece— the bread and butter of Patek Philippe’s repertoire.
Dating to the 2010s, this piece is presented in 18K rose gold. It features a luminous cream dial with applied indices, recessed subsidiary registers indicating day and month, a moonphase aperture and date window at 6 o'clock, and a matching luminous 'feuille' handset. Maintained in beautiful condition, this piece comes comes fitted to a factory brown alligator strap with a signed 18K rose gold deployant clasp.
Outstanding.
This piece is the perfect foray into the world of complicated Patek Philippe, allowing a collector to access all the prominence of a Patek complication without breaking the bank.