
Mark in Paris offers a compelling look at the Patek Philippe Ref. 5496P, a perpetual calendar often overlooked in discussions. His detailed photographs and observations highlight the watch's unique aesthetic, which blends classical refinement with a more contemporary, angular case design. Mark's post serves as an excellent resource for collectors seeking to understand the subtle distinctions and appeal of this platinum perpetual calendar.


The Patek Philippe Reference 5140 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch, succeeding the highly regarded Reference 3940. It maintains the classic Patek Philippe perpetual calendar layout, featuring day, date, month, leap year, and moon phase indications. The 5140 was introduced with a slightly larger case diameter than its predecessor, reflecting contemporary preferences while retaining a traditional aesthetic.
This reference is powered by the ultra-thin self-winding Caliber 240 Q, known for its micro-rotor construction which allows for a slender case profile. The movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is presented in 18k white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold cases, measuring 39 mm in diameter, and is fitted with a sapphire crystal. It offers water resistance to 30 meters.
The 5140 appeals to collectors seeking a modern perpetual calendar with a direct lineage to Patek Philippe's established complications. Its production run from 2006 to 2019 saw various dial configurations, including opaline and silvery finishes. The watch is typically paired with a leather strap and a deployant clasp, consistent with Patek Philippe's classic offerings.
To me, this is most convincing calendar watch from Patek's current collection. Easy to read, retrograde date function and very classic case and dial.
Nice to have your feedback CC. This makes me realize that there are quite a few members here who put it in the upper part of the brand's Perpetual Calendars. That's interesting and I wouldn't have excpected this. You're right to mention that legibility and classical elegance are strong assets in such watches. Thanks a lot for your valuable feedback and kind words CC Best, Mark
Actually, 5496 is my favorite PC only in Patek's current collection. It's very legible and not too "old school". I also like the retrograde date. The -014 with the honey-brown dial is really cool (the other dial versions of the P are a little bit boring, IMO). My AD still has a -014 and I tried it on a couple of times but so far I have not pulled the trigger. However, I'm still considering this reference. Best, Volker
I wouldn't excpect as I said to CC that the 5496 would be in such a position. You mention also legibility and emphasize its aesthetics that is quite a contemporary elegance indeed, especially when looking for something not too traditional. I see quite well from close range so legibility is never something I look closely at but I notice year after year that it is a major criteria for many. I had some pictures of the 5496P Honey dial as wel thatl I posted some time ago ( www.watchprosite.c
Like my 5230, and the 5396 you mention. And i think it looks best in white metal. (Although the 5230 RG is a fine piece.) The layout of the dial is very pleasing and practical. But I'm not sure how I feel about the red tip on the date hand. It seems to add some levity (?) to an otherwise very serious watch. I guess it would be best to see it in a shop before passing judgment. It's great that you chose to do this review, Mark, as it is a piece that isn't seen here often and it deserves to be. Tha
even if the lugs remain quite different. The live experience for such "colder" watches is very important indeed. It can look rather "fade" and less exciting on picture. It is the way it plays with light that gives all its additional attractiveness. Thanks a lot for your detailed comments and lind words Padj, this is interesting reading and such discussions among us all sharing our feedback is I think interesting for people seeking a PC complication Best, Mark
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