Launched in 1998 and produced until 2006, Patek Philippe launched the ref. 5059 as a new version of their officer-style watch with a twist, it was a retrograde perpetual calendar. Featuring all of the textbook indicators of an officer’s watch, the ref. 5059 boasts an incredible 36mm 18kt yellow gold case construction with its signature sapphire crystal exhibition hinged-caseback and the iconic scrolled lugs with a matching 18kt yellow gold buckle. Furthermore, its white dial boasts black painted Roman numerals, a black oxidised gold feuille handset and a litany of dials that feed into its perpetual calendar functionality. With a retrograde semi-circular pointer date display in its center, a moon phase aperture at 6 o’clock and a day and month aperture at 9 and 3 o’clock, respectively, the 5059's symmetrical dial layout is thoroughly legible and luxurious. Featuring an entirely polished case and measuring 36mm in diameter, the ref. 5059 is the perfect timepiece to wear as a dress watch but with the added personality of its unique case design and interesting dial.

There is nothing more distinguishing than a Patek Philippe Officer’s case with a hinged case back to reveal the beauty of the movement within. The ref. 5059 was launched in 1998 and stayed in production until 2006. Now considered a vintage watch, this may be one of the best value buys of our era within the category of perpetual calendar wristwatches. Historically, we must consider that this is the first Patek Philippe perpetual calendar made with sweep seconds since the ref. 2497/2438 in the 1950s. Less than 1400 examples of the reference were made in 18K yellow, white, and rose gold as well as platinum. During its entire eight year run, less than 280 examples were made in yellow gold, interestingly the rarest of 5059 case metals.