Introduction
Launched in 1993 and discontinued in 2002, the Patek Philippe Retrograde Perpetual Calendar ref. 5050 is an exquisitely rare and stunningly designed timepiece that signified a large step forward for the Genevan Giant. Featuring the first retrograde date display in any Patek Philippe timepiece, the ref. 5050R features a classically styled 35m 18ct rose gold case with elegant proportions and a legible display that defies the incredible complexity of its cal. 315 S QR movement. Reminiscent of the Calatrava references that came before it, the ref. 5050R's case features a gently stepped bezel with soft lines flowing around the case and into the elegant lugs holding the brown alligator strap to this wonderful watch. A quirky watch thanks to its unusual retrograde function, the ref. 5050R is unique in its function yet still feels legible and incredibly executed. Perhaps a lesson in thoughtful watch design, the ref. 5050R is the perfect example of why Patek are as revered as they are - they make incredible timepieces inside and out.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch and Second Solid Caseback
Est. value range
$35,000 – $45,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
35.5mm
Model
Retrograde Perpetual Calendar
Movement
Automatic cal. 315 S QR
Reference
5050R
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2000
Condition
Near-Mint
Material
18kt rose gold
Included
Watch with additional 18kt rose gold solid caseback
Dial Color
Opaline silver
THE DIAL
An incredibly legible dial considering the level of complexity involved, the ref. 5050R features a moon phase indicator at 6 o'clock - accurate for 120 years, a day aperture at 9 o'clock mirrored by a month aperture at 3 o'clock, a leap year aperture at 12 o'clock, and its eponymous retrograde date display spanning from underneath the 8 o'clock marker over to the 4 o'clock marker in a semi-circular fashion.
THE MOVEMENT
Powered by the cal. 315 S QR, the ref. 5050R is a sight to behold through the view of its sapphire crystal exhibition caseback with a 22ct yellow gold winding rotor and Patek's highly esteemed finishing.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
Condition
Watch is in near-mint overall condition. Bezel has a few minor marks as visible in the images. There is some very light surface wear visible on the rest of the watch. Dial near-mint without flaws.
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.
Our Perspective
Famed as one of the greatest watchmakers in the world, very few brands can design as complicated a watch as the ref. 5050R, and make it as stunningly quaint and reserved as Patek Philippe. Additionally, with only around 150 examples known to have been produced by Patek the ref. 5050R is as rare as it is stunning.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
