CIRCA: 1999
CASE MATERIAL: Yellow gold
CASE DIAMETER: 35 mm.
DIAL: Silvered
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Perpetual calendar, moon phases, 24-hour and leap year indication
BUCKLE: Yellow gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
REMARK: Approx. 500 pieces made in yellow gold

Conditions of Sale
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Lot Essay

The Patek Philippe reference 5039, which debuted in 1996 and was manufactured until 2007, is one of the company's most understated and discrete perpetual calendar watches. The 5039 has long gone unnoticed despite being a member of one of Patek Philippe's most well-known complication families, subtly appealing to connoisseurs who value sophistication over obvious recognition.

The 5039 was produced in much smaller quantities than its sister reference 3940. The model's relative scarcity is highlighted by the estimated 500 examples that were produced in yellow gold, 400 in white gold, and only about 300 in pink gold. Although the 5039 and 3940 are mechanically identical, the 5039 stands out due to its more decorative and opulent case design.

The reference's distinctive visual features are its straight, downturned lugs and elegant hobnail (Clous de Paris) bezel, which give the watch a slightly more formal and architectural appearance on the wrist. The renowned calibre 240 Q, which powers the watch, has an automatic micro-rotor winding mechanism that allows for remarkable thinness without sacrificing technical brilliance.

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Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing and all functions are working; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Very good.
Case: Scratches and dents throughout. Caseback with signs of wear. Dent on the bezel at 9 o'clock. Hallmarks on the side of the case are clear and legible.
Clasp: Scratches and dents.
Strap: The watch is sold and delivered with a Christie's branded strap, the original strap is not included in the sale.
Remark: An ‘Extract from the Archives’ has been requested from Patek Philippe but has not yet been issued. Issuance is subject entirely to Patek Philippe’s determination, and there can be no assurance that an Extract will be issued at all or, if issued, that it will be available by the date of the auction.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.

Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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