The creation of something new based on designs of the past is a common occurence for special occasions in Patek Philippe history, and the watches created to commemorate the opening of their new manufacturing center in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, in 1997, were especially well-received by collectors. Of these, seven were limited edition rectangular-shaped timepieces: four reference 5500 in 18K pink gold, 18K white gold, 18K yellow gold, and platinum, and three reference 4900 – the more diminutive women’s size – in 18K pink gold, 18K white gold, and 18K yellow gold. They were nicknamed "Pagoda" for the exaggerated curved lugs that extend into a wide, flat base much like the architecture of a traditional pagoda. Inextricable from Art Deco design, which also drew on the history of art and architecture in South and East Asia, the design for the 1997 "Pagoda" was based on the mid-century reference 2441. In production from 1948 until the mid-1950s, the reference 2441 has been nicknamed the "Eiffel Tower" by collectors, though the Pagoda-style lugs are almost identical in architecture to those of the so-called "Eiffel Tower". The top and bottom lugs are joined by an elegantly arched bridge, which terminates in large, squared lugs. The vertical, rose gold Roman numerals further accentuate the Art Deco design origins.

The reference 5500 in 18K rose gold was produced in 500 examples, with the dies and tools used to create those examples being destroyed so that they can never again be reproduced. Offered in wonderful condition and complete with its original presentation box and literature announcing the new series of watches, this is an exclusive and highly attractive modern limited edition Patek Philippe watch for the connoisseur. Its desirability is further enhanced by the prestigious Tiffany & Co. retailer signature found at 6 o’clock – making it the first of its kind to surface at auction.