Known for its mechanical prowess, the ref. 5004 is a holy grail with an estimated output of 12 examples only per annum. This reference was made between 1994 and 2010 and was the first serially produced perpetual calendar split-seconds chronograph with moon phases by the firm. Celebrated as one of the great neo-classical high complication models in the Patek Philippe catalogue, it was one of the last models to be powered by the “Nouvelle Lemania” based calibre, a powerful movement compacted into a 36mm case.

The ref. 5004 is an exemplary demonstration of Patek Phillipe’s impressive technological achievements. Fusing form and function, it takes after the preceding ref. 3970 with subtle differences, such as a thicker case, granting it a much more wrist presence, while remaining superbly elegant and understated. In terms of practicality, the presence of the 24-hour and leap-year indications are enormously useful when it comes to setting the watch. Not to mention, this tastefully arranged layout is uncluttered and easy on the eyes, allowing its wearer to fully admire the dial and read the time without distractions.

Dubbed as a highly collectible specimen, the present pink gold ref. 5004R-014 is a true gem from 1999, offered in excellent overall condition. The model was serially produced in the three golds and platinum, plus one titanium example and a number of stainless steel pieces made with the last calibre available. Out of the four "standard" precious metals, the pink gold version appears to be one of the scarcest, with an estimated production of around 200 examples. According to our research, the present timepiece is the 42nd to be identified in the market sporting the exact configuration.