Renowned for their groundbreaking innovations in watchmaking, Patek Philippe holds an indisputable position as one of the most esteemed watchmakers to ever grace the industry. Central to their array of complications is the iconic annual calendar, a balance between the complex perpetual calendar and the triple calendar. The inaugural model, the ref. 5035, debuted in 1996, marking Patek Philippe's recognition of the need for an intermediate calendar. The watch we have here, however, is an ultra-modern interpretation of the ref. 5035, the Annual Calendar ref. 4947/1A-001 which was debuted in 2021. Made of stainless steel, a historical rarity for Patek’s non-sports watches, it features a 38mm x 11mm Calatrava-style case and a polished bezel that exudes understated elegance and sits comfortably on the wrist, especially with its 5-row bracelet as offered here. Notable for its “Shantung” dial finish, the ref. 4947’s rich blue display is complete with a linen-like texture that is achieved by combining vertical and horizontal brushing. Complete with Breguet numerals, it is truly mesmerizing. This Patek Philippe ref. 4947 Annual Calendar emerges as a compelling modern dress watch, combining simplicity, mechanical complexity, and classic appeal in perfect harmony.

Combining one Patek's most iconic complications with the unlikely construction material of stainless steel and the addition of a bracelet, the ref. 4947/1A is an obscure Patek, but with its stunning "Shantung" dial it is all the more special.