Released in 2006 as the successor to the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar ref. 3940, the ref. 5140 would quickly become the blueprint for perpetual calendar watches following in its footsteps looking to emulate its aesthetic design and, or, success. With its distinctively classical, but enlarged 37.2mm case diameter (from the 36mm ref. 3940), the ref. 5140 appeals to modern tastes where collectors want a classical feel without the fragility or diminutive designs of the past. One of the most important timepieces within Patek’s modern history, the ref. 5140’s inoffensive construction, beautiful dial, and immaculate craftsmanship all combine to create a watch that collectors still clamor to own. Powered by the automatic cal. 240Q movement, the ref. 5140 hosts the same movement as the ref. 3940, but with its enlarged case comes and updated dial with larger applied indices and a more contemporary fit on the wrist. Produced until it was discontinued in 2018, the ref. 5140 is the last of Patek’s classically-inspired perpetual calendars, with their modern launches being larger and boasting designs that are further removed from this lineage of perpetual calendar that can trace its heritage all the way back to mid-century Patek Philippe.

One of the most elegant perpetual calendars Patek Philippe ever made, the ref. 5140 is slim and refined on the wrist, with the ultra-thin cal. 240Q enabling its profile to be understated and easy to wear.