Introduced by Patek Philippe in 1998, the ref. 5059 holds a special place in the storied watchmaker's history – Along with its sibling ref. 5050, it represented the first perpetual calendar wristwatch with center seconds produced since the discontinuation of references 2497 and 2438-1. This return to center seconds after a long hiatus gave the ref. 5059 an instant appeal and distinction. Its refined 36mm officer-style case with curved lugs and hinged snap caseback added to its sleek mid-20th century aesthetic.

The ingenious self-winding cal. 315 S QR beating inside was derived from the cal. 315 SC, optimized for center seconds. As a sophisticated and robust Patek Philippe in-house movement, the caliber incorporated an array of complications including perpetual calendar with retrograde date - an especially intriguing feature.

With production spanning from 1998 to 2006, it is estimated that a mere 1200 to 1400 examples of ref. 5059 were brought into existence across all metal variants before its discontinuation. Of these, the rarest version in pink gold is thought to number around 340 pieces - making them highly exclusive and coveted on the market.

The present example, ref. 5059R-017, immediately stands out as extraordinary. Its sunburst brown dial is evidence of its status as part of a special edition made for the London market – only the second example to appear at auction. The rich chocolate brown dial provides a perfect complement to the pink gold case. Fitted with the same hue of brown as the unique 5059R-018 with Breguet numerals “MSO’ monogram dial that was sold for US$264,600 at PHILLIPS New York Auction: Seven, this variant is further distinguished by its pink gold applied Roman numerals and white centre seconds and retrograde hand.

Preserved in outstanding condition with barely any signs of wear and further accompanied by its full set of accessories, the present ref. 5059 is without a doubt an incredibly rare one to come across at auction.