While a relatively common occurrence in modern watchmaking, just a couple of decades ago limited editions timepieces were a much rarer breed. Reference 5500 and 4900 are among the extremely scarce limited edition wristwatch models made by Patek Philippe before the new millennium. Other examples from the time include some commemorative models such as reference 3960 and reference 3969, launched in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the company in 1989, and some special editions of existing models especially made for retailers (such as reference 3940 for Beyer) although the latter are variations of existing models, rather than true limited edition references.

These two models, instead, are truly limited edition pieces. Made to commemorate the opening of Patek Philippe Plan-les-Ouates facility, each piece is delivered with, in addition to the normally occurring Certificate d’Origine, also a COSC certification and a limited edition attestation detailing the number of pieces made. Specifically, only 1100 pieces of reference 5500 were made in yellow gold, 500 in pink gold, 250 in white gold and 150 in platinum. The lady’s model is even scarcer, with an output of 500 pieces in yellow gold, 150 pieces in pink gold and 100 pieces in white gold.

Normally, the watches were sold singularly but five sets comprising all seven timepieces were delivered by the company. As expected all the Certificate d’Origine bear the stamp of the same retailer (the Patek Philippe Salon in Paris) and the same date, indicating this is not a “collection” of pieces, but rather a set of watches sold together. Furthermore, the set is accompanied by a massive wooden presentation box fitted to the seven pieces, with the lid doubling as presentation plateau. The present set has never appeared on the market before today, and it is the fourth set out of the five made to appear at auction. With only one set left to reappear on the market, this is a virtually unique occasion for the collector of rare and limited edition timepieces.