The legacy and rarity of Patek Philippe’s Ref. 5004

Within the world of Patek Philippe, the endless calendar chronograph family is a unanimous heavyweight.

Tracing its origins back to the iconic Ref. 1518, Patek Philippe‘s pairing of perpetual calendar and chronograph complications has given rise to many significant references, both vintage and modern.

In 1996, the renowned watchmaker elevated this combination with the introduction of Ref. 5004, the first serially produced perpetual calendar split-seconds chronograph with moonphase.

The Technological Marvel: Calibre CH27-70

The Ref. 5004 was powered by the calibre CH27-70, which itself was derived from the iconic Lemania 2310 movement.

This reference was produced in a variety of precious metals, including white gold, rose gold, yellow gold, and platinum. The production of Ref. 5004 continued until 2012, culminating with the release of around 50 models in stainless steel and one unique model in titanium.

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Initially, Patek Philippe suggested that an average of about 12 units of Ref. 5004 were produced annually, implying a total production run of around 200-250 pieces. However, it has been revealed that the actual production numbers were significantly higher, with estimates of over 200 pieces in platinum alone.

Tony Kavak and His Extraordinary Collection

Despite its higher-than-reported production numbers, Ref. 5004 remains rare, with unique examples cherished by collectors. One such collector is Tony Kavak, a prominent figure in the world of vintage Patek Philippe.

Growing up in Istanbul, Tony was immersed in the world of fine wristwatches from an early age, being part of the third generation of Patek Philippe collectors in his family. After relocating to Stockholm in the 2000s, he founded Luxury Watches Stockholm, a leading dealer in vintage and second-hand timepieces.

Tony’s passion for rare Patek Philippe watches is evident in his Instagram handle, @only_therarest, and his private museum in Stockholm, which showcases his extraordinary collection. Tony owns over 20 examples of Ref. 5004, with four particularly special pieces standing out.

Notable Examples of Ref. 5004

One of the most remarkable pieces in Tony’s collection is an example of Ref. 5004 with a black dial, produced circa 1988. Black dial variants of Ref. 5004 are far fewer in number compared to the more common white dials, making this piece exceptionally rare and significant.

This early black dial model, produced just a few years after the inception of Ref. 5004, exemplifies the unique craftsmanship and timeless elegance that Patek Philippe is renowned for.

Conclusion

Patek Philippe’s Ref. 5004 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation in watchmaking.

Its combination of perpetual calendar, split-seconds chronograph, and moonphase complications, along with its association with notable collectors like Tony Kavak, solidifies its status as a highly coveted and celebrated timepiece in the horological world.