Launched in 1994 and in production for only approximately 8 years, Patek Philippe’s reference 5020, also known as the “TV Screen” due to its unusual cushion shape was an alternative to the reference 3970 featuring the identical complications: perpetual calendar with leap year, 24 hour indicator and chronograph.

The reference 5020’s avant garde design and tasteful proportions sets it apart from other perpetual calendar chronographs from Patek Philippe. However, its unusual case shape elicited lukewarm reactions from clients, leading to very low production numbers. It is believed that about 200 examples of reference 5020 were ever made across all four metals produced. The cushion-form, so-called “TV-shaped” case is much more reminiscent of the oversized tonneau cases of the 1970s, such as the famous Beta 21. Patek Philippe also incorporated other classic features such as Breguet numerals and hands, giving the reference 5020 a distinctively elegant look.

Having been originally purchased at the Patek Philippe Boutique in Geneva in 1994, the present example was especially well cared for, having received a factory service in 2010 and remaining sealed until it was opened at some time between 2018 and the present. It retains deeply punched hallmarks and strong original proportions, as well as all its original accessories.