The Annual Calendar is a complication invented by Patek Philippe.
While it plays second fiddle to the perpetual calendar in the minds of most collectors, the reality is that the construction of the annual calendar mechanism is equally challenging, and in some cases, requires even more components. Launched in 1996, the Reference 5035 was Patek's first Annual Calendar model and set the bar for all that followed — including those from competitors.
This particular example, a Reference 5396G, is housed in a beautifully proportioned 38.5mm white gold case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a polished bezel. It features a crisp satin silver dial with applied white gold indices, a matching 'dauphine' handset, date, day of the week, month, and moonphase apertures, and a 24hr indicator at the 6:00 position.
Powered by Patek Philippe's Caliber 324 S QA LU 24H automatic winding movement, it comes paired to a signed black alligator leather strap with a signed, 18k white gold deployant clasp. It also includes its inner and outer boxes.
This piece packs pedigree, refinement, function, and outstanding craftsmanship that can only be expected on Patek Philippe.
Any old wristwatch can tell the time. Few truly define it.