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Lot Essay
Production of the 5040 was launched in 1992 and it stayed in production until 2007. During its run, it is estimated that just under 4000 examples were produced and approximately 500 examples were made in white gold.
This example of the 5040 is arguably one the most important and rare example of this reference to exist and one of the last 5040s to ever leave the manufacture. As one of the rarer modern Patek Philippe references to begin, this particular example of the reference takes rarity to the level of truly unique. The dial features three variants never before seen on this reference. First, the dial is colored pink/salmon with applied white gold Breguet numerals, next the hands are luminescent and combined with lume dots makes for a useful and elegant combination, finally the initials of the original owner are discreetly placed above the 6 o’clock position, a detail that elevates this watch to a status of the highest level. Patek Philippe has historically placed initials and/or names on dials in very few instances such as with J.B. Champion. This 5040 gives the collector the unusual opportunity to acquire a modern watch that is historical in its magnitude.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 295.
This example of the 5040 is arguably one the most important and rare example of this reference to exist and one of the last 5040s to ever leave the manufacture. As one of the rarer modern Patek Philippe references to begin, this particular example of the reference takes rarity to the level of truly unique. The dial features three variants never before seen on this reference. First, the dial is colored pink/salmon with applied white gold Breguet numerals, next the hands are luminescent and combined with lume dots makes for a useful and elegant combination, finally the initials of the original owner are discreetly placed above the 6 o’clock position, a detail that elevates this watch to a status of the highest level. Patek Philippe has historically placed initials and/or names on dials in very few instances such as with J.B. Champion. This 5040 gives the collector the unusual opportunity to acquire a modern watch that is historical in its magnitude.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 295.