Since its invention and patent in 1996, Patek Philippe’s Annual Calendar has become a milestone of innovation in fine watchmaking. This unique mechanism stands out for its clear and precise date display, requiring only one correction per year, at the end of February, due to the month’s irregularity. Capable of automatically indicating months of 30 and 31 days, the Annual Calendar was designed to be functional, elegant, and versatile, able to be combined with other complications such as the Moon Phases.
An icon of contemporary watchmaking
Launched in 2006, reference 5396 has established itself as one of the Manufacture’s most emblematic models. Today, its latest interpretation, Ref. 5396G-017, reaffirms the technical and aesthetic excellence of the Geneva maison, by combining tradition, precision, and sophistication in a single timekeeping instrument.
Technical and aesthetic elegance
The new version is distinguished by a fully polished white gold case, 38.5 mm in diameter, and by a blue-grey dial with a soleil finish and black gradient around the edge. Twelve baguette-cut diamond hour markers (0.26 ct) add a subtle brilliance, while faceted white gold “dauphine-style” hands and a central seconds hand complete the visual balance. The shiny navy blue alligator leather strap, with white gold folding clasp, extends its aura of discreet elegance.
The dial indications are clear and organised: double window for day and month at 12 o’clock, date at 6 o’clock, and a 24-hour subdial with Moon Phases. This latter complication combines poetry and precision, with a deviation of just one day every 122 years. The mechanism is complemented by lateral correctors that allow intuitive adjustment of the functions.
At the heart of the watch beats the self-winding calibre 26-330 S QA LU 24H, visible through the sapphire crystal caseback. The finishing reflects Patek Philippe’s mastery, from bridges with polished bevelled edges to the central gold rotor engraved with the Calatrava cross.
With this interpretation, the Annual Calendar Ref. 5396G-017 confirms itself as an indispensable piece for discerning collectors and for all those who seek in time not only precision, but also art and heritage.
