Launched in 1996 following the recovery of the watch industry after the onslaught of the Quartz Crisis, the annual calendar complication was an ingenious means for Patek to open up their incredible calendar timepieces to more owners. While not as autonomous as the perpetual calendar, the annual calendar only needs one adjustment per year in February, which has since enabled Patek Philippe’s annual calendar timepieces to be among some of their best-selling, including the iconic ref. 5036 that we have here. Debuting in 1998 as Patek Philippe’s second annual calendar timepiece, after the ref. 5035, the ref. 5036 took the ref. 5035’s design inspiration but with the inclusion of a moon-phase indicator. This is found alongside its day and month subdials, which are then mirrored by the ref. 5036’s date aperture and power reserve indicator at 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock, respectively. Luxuriously constructed from 18kt gold and even featuring an intricate 5-link bracelet, the ref. 5036 brings out the best of Patek Philippe in just about every way possible with its clean design, incredible movement, and hefty precious metal construction.

Watch is in near-mint condition, showing very light signs of wear. Strong hallmarks along the case and clasp. There are 16 links, 7 removable, and there is little to no stretch on the band.

Perhaps one of Patek Philippe's best-known Annual Calendar models, the ref. 5036 paved the way for the complication with its powerful cal. 315/199 introducing the moon-phase indicator to the Annual Calendar collection, a pairing we still observe to this day.