Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5960P - Full set

Origin

Patek Philippe needs almost zero introduction with their extensive lineage to the importance of the calendar watch being a similar story. This haute horology watchmaker has a history of firsts under its belt including producing the first perpetual calendar wristwatch (1925), the first perpetual calendar chronograph (1941), the first sweeping second’s perpetual calendar wristwatch (1944), and the first self-winding perpetual calendar (1962). Of course, there are many others we could have listed here over its decorated history, but one of the youngest and arguably most user-friendly complication occurred during the mid-1990s. Patented in 1996, Patek Philippe was the first brand to produce an annual calendar. A little more ‘simple’ than a perpetual calendar, the annual calendar’s most appealing function is how it only requires one adjustment a year (we have leap years to thank for that).

First introduced ten years after the inaugural annual calendar, the 5960P is a reference from 2006 which didn’t just provide an annual calendar complication but also an integrated chronograph function as well. Not only this, but it was also the first-ever self-winding chronograph developed and manufactured in-house by Patek Philippe. Encased in platinum, the 5960P reference is a hugely important complicated model for Patek and proved to the world that they remain at the top of the tree when it comes to horological innovation.

The Watch

Dating from 2008, this 5960P is a gorgeous example from the golden era of the reference. It begins with its high polished, balanced, and elegant case. Understated in its styling and appearance, this 40.5mm case is contemporarily designed with smooth flowing angles and a typical sense of delicacy. Once this reference is in the hand, however, any understated notions disappear as its substantial platinum case leaves no trace of confusion, providing an enjoyable juxtaposition and desirable weight to the touch. Suitably proportioned pump pushers and crown occupy the right-hand side of the case, maintaining an increased level of functionality.

This particular 5960P continues to display à la mode qualities when discovering the dial as its youthful sunburst grey backdrop is a suitable reflection of the modernity of the annual calendar. Grey is a hugely versatile tone for a watch as it can combine a wide range of complementary colour schemes simultaneously with contrasting details.  There is a lot to adore on this 5960P’s dial from symmetry, balance, function complications and an overriding sense of modern sophistication. Commanding the top half of the dial are three apertures neatly and periodically integrated with the elegant baton style markers filled with lume. Operated through the correctors sitting flush to the watch case we find a day aperture between the ten and eleven-hour marker, replacing a 12 o’clock marker sits a large date window prominently framed, and finally a month aperture between the one and two o’clock batons. This integration is hugely characteristic of this reference - complete with a petite centralised power reserve indicator.

The 5960P also comes with a flyback chronograph function which is predominantly read through the large sub-dial at 6 o’clock. Neatly compact and legible there is a 12-hour counter on the inside, surrounded by a 60-minute counter measuring elapsed time when the chronograph is engaged. An elongated minute counter in the form of a red pointer is present to separate it from the shorter blue hour indicator. There is even a small circular aperture towards the bottom of the sub-dial which serves as a day/night indicator.

These details and information along with its centralised chronograph hand, leaf handset filled with luminous material and its appealing, wearable proportions result in the excellence of the remarkably useable 5960P being clear as day.

The Movement

Making all of this watchmaking wizardry possible is the automatic caliber CH28-520 IRM QA 24H. This truly special piece of modern-day horology is the first in-house self-winding chronograph movement from Patek Philippe which debuted in 2006 with the 5960P. This mechanical masterpiece should be thought of as a top hits list of features with its vertical clutch flyback column-wheel chronograph, 40 jewels, annual calendar, day/night display, power-reserve indicator, and uni-directional 21k rotor.

Thankfully this watchmaking artistry can be viewed through the display case back of the 5960P where no corners have been cut in the finishing and decorating department.

How It Wears

Sporty, youthful and refreshingly contemporary, the 5960P has a reputation for being a compelling daily wearer despite its platinum case.  Unsurprisingly this reputation is immensely accurate as the watch boasts modern and considered proportions, fantastic functionality and usability in a timepiece that adapts to its environment seamlessly. Worn with business attire it reflects heightened professionalism and never-ending elegance. Paired with a crisp Oxford shirt and chino trousers it adopts casual, understated and refined traits 

That ladies and gentlemen is the magic of a Patek Philippe.

Condition

This 5960P is sold as a complete full set including the boxes, manual, and papers that are signed 2008. Fitted to a Grey Grained Mr Watchley strap, the watch is presented in mint condition showing only hairline scratches - the case remains dent free. The watch is also sold with the original Patek Philippe folding buckle.