An impressive, angular, and lavishly designed rectangular wristwatch, the reference 5101 stands out not only with its case architecture, but in its remarkable mechanical prowess. First launched in 2003, it was the first wristwatch that combined a double-barrel 10-day power reserve with a tourbillon. Later that year, the 5101 won the “Aiguille d’Or”, or Golden Hand, prize at the Grand Prix d’Horologerie de Genève – the Grand Prix’s highest honor. The case, with triple-stepped sides and a long, curved rectangular silhouette, owes direct homage to the Art Deco era of design.

As far as tourbillons go, Patek Philippe is notable for being tastefully subtle with their use of the complication, preferring not to reveal the mechanism through the dial. This is done with a specific intention - to decrease the susceptibility of the tourbillon-equipped escapement losing oil via exposure to UV rays – but also serves to set Patek Philippe apart from its competitors. The two-tone dial of this reference 5101 is remarkably clean and attractive, with two sub dials, one indicating the power reserve, the other the subsidiary seconds with the word “Tourbillon” and the serial number discreetly printed within. Only the wearer, and those enlightened connoisseurs would be able to discern exactly which complication resides within.

Consigned by the family of the original owner and offered in its factory seal with all its original accessories, the present 5101R is a rare opportunity to obtain one of Patek Philippe’s modern masterpieces.