The reference 5004 is an outstanding example of Patek Philippe's outstanding craftsmanship - the dial design is certainly one of the most attractive seen on this rare reference. The present timepiece features the unbeatable combination of a pink gold case and a distinct black dial with the sought-after pink gold Arabic numerals that will not go unnoticed amongst collectors.

As stated on the service invoice, this charismatic dial was added on special request by Patek Philippe - although the Certificate of Origin states that the dial fitted on the present watch was the standard version of silver colour with Arabic numerals.

With an approximate output of only 12 examples per year due to its immense technical complexity, the reference 5004 is regarded as one of the great modern classics among Patek Philippe’s high complication models and has a cult following among collectors. In production between 1994 and 2010, the 1st series watches commenced with movement no. 879’501, the present pink gold watch is an early example with movement no. 879'856.

Descended from Ref. 3970, successor to the mythical Ref. 2499, the 5004 embodies not only the essence of Patek Philippe's design legacy of the post war decades but also the savoir faire of their skilled master watchmakers who managed to add another highly complex mechanism to a traditional sized watch without disturbing its proportions.

To many collectors, reference 5004 is one of the greatest wristwatches ever made and is often mentioned as one of the watches with the most promising future in the market. It was Patek Philippe’s first serially produced split-seconds perpetual calendar wristwatch. Manufactured in four metals during its 16-year run – 18k yellow gold, 18k pink gold, 18k white gold, and platinum. The 5004 was eventually superseded by Ref. 5204, which was unveiled during Baselworld 2012.

PROVENANCE: Christie's Geneva, November 2023