The arrival of the new millennium provided Patek Philippe with an opportunity to celebrate its watchmaking heritage whilst introducing an important technical achievement. Launched in 2000, the ref. 5100 was a limited-edition wristwatch that combined an extraordinary ten-day power reserve with a distinctive rectangular case inspired by the manufacture's celebrated ref. 2554, often nicknamed the 'Manta Ray'. Produced in four precious metal variations, the collection comprised 1,500 examples in yellow gold, 750 in rose gold, 450 in white gold and just 300 in platinum, making a total of 3,000 watches. At its heart was the newly developed manually wound calibre 28-20/220, a rectangular movement featuring two mainspring barrels arranged in series to deliver an impressive 240 hours of autonomy. The movement represented a significant achievement in mechanical watchmaking, combining an extended power reserve with the precision and finishing expected of Patek Philippe. Its introduction also demonstrated the manufacture's continued commitment to traditional manually wound movements at a time when automatic watches dominated much of the luxury market.

Dating to 2000, this ref. 5100J-001 is one of the 1,500 examples produced in 18K yellow gold. Its unusual case measures approximately 46mm by 34mm and features broad, sculpted sides that flare outwards towards the centre, creating a distinctive architectural profile. The gently curved construction follows the contours of the wrist, whilst the polished gold surfaces emphasise the case's dramatic proportions. The silver dial provides a restrained contrast to the elaborate case, with applied gold Arabic numerals, triangular hour markers and dauphine hands. A power reserve indicator at twelve o'clock displays the remaining autonomy of the movement, balanced by a subsidiary seconds register at six. The sapphire crystal display back reveals the rectangular calibre within, allowing its traditional finishing and mechanical architecture to be appreciated. Combining a remarkable movement with an unmistakable case design, the ref. 5100J represents one of Patek Philippe's most interesting commemorative watches of the early twenty-first century.

Watch is in overall near-mint condition. The 18K yellow gold case shows signs of careful wear. The reverse of the case retains two clear stamps on the crown side and two hallmarks on the opposite side, one of which exhibits a little wear. The case back engravings remain well defined. The dial and hands are in near-mint condition. It is fitted with a black leather strap and an 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle showing surface scuffs. Comes with box, Certificate of Origin, Timing Certificate, booklets, document holder, and plaque with silver medal coin.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.