Introduced in 1996 and in production until around 2012, reference 5004 is considered by many collectors amongst the most iconic of modern Patek Philippe models. It was the company’s first serially produced split-seconds perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch and it was arguably an instant classic. It is notably Patek Philippe’s only split seconds perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch made in series to house a Lemania-based movement, which has furthermore increased the “old school” appeal and popularity of the reference.

Most Patek Philippe aficionados are thrilled when they are accepted to join a waiting list for a complication of this importance. Only a very selected few get access to a bracelet timepiece and even fewer to a special request dial. But to be granted one’s monogram presence on the dial, one’s importance to the collecting world must be truly paramount, the kind of collector comparable to – to name a few others who achieved such an honor – Henry Graves, Jr., James W. Packard or J.B. Champion.

This example of 5004 can be considered without a doubt one of the – if not the – most important specimen of this already legendary reference. Even a cursory glance cannot miss the most unusual timepiece peeking at the beholder from behind the factory sealed sleeve. At first, one is mystified by the slate grey color of the dial. Then, the eye drifts to the massive white gold bracelet, obviously not a factory option for
the model but a concession Patek Philippe only grants on extremely scarce occasions. Eventually, bafflement ensues at the realization that the entire graphic layout is completely different from the standard for the reference: applied dot hour markers instead of Arabic or baton, double railway track framing an oversize tachymetre scale, luminous accents and luminous hands. Such an imaginative combination could only be the result of a special order watch, made for one of Patek Philippe’s most
exclusive clients.

However – in truly “textbook” Patek Philippe style – the most understated detail is the most awe-inspiring feature, and makes the collector realize to be in the presence of a truly momentous timepiece. The monogram MSO is present at 6 o’clock. A monogram dial 5004 has – according to our research – never before appeared to the public. A similar dial configuration has been seen before on timepieces made for another highly prominent collector: Eric Clapton. However, these did not bear the owner’s monogram, a detail which highlights even more the importance of the present piece.