The complication which has become almost synonymous with isthe annual calendar chronograph. A the first of this popular line, the 5960P, was introduced in 2006 (with a grey dial), 10 years after the invention of the annual calendar complication by Patek Philippe. Highly practical in its design and complexity, it is considered by many as the perfect everyday Patek Philippe, with useful functions displayed in a clearly arranged dial layout, and a very wearable amorphous case.

The Annual Calendar Chronograph

In 1996, Patek Philippe released the worlds first annual calendar wristwatch, the reference 5035. It was developed to show relevant information about the day, whilst also providing a more accessible price point for a calendar complication, compared tothe brands . The complication has been in Pateks catalogue ever since.

The reference 5960P'sannual calendar mechanism only requires adjustment once a year in February, as it accounts for the long and short months throughout the year. The day, date and month are located within the three apertures displayed at the top of the dial, in a clear andlegible manner. All these can be individually adjusted, using the correctors on the left side of the case.

Furthermore, the 5960Pcomes equipped with a flyback chronograph function, concealing much of the information within the sixoclock subsidiary dial; you will find the 60-minute counter surrounding the 12-hour counter on the inside, for the chronograph function. It has a longer minute counter in the form of a red pointer, distinguishing it from the shorter blue hour indicator. Within this sub-dial, theres also a small circular aperture, serving as a day/night indicator.

The 40.5mm platinum case has a strong presence, yet maintains elegant styling. Featuring round pump pushers and fluid lugs, the case is typical of Patek Philippes contemporary watchmaking style, with smooth, bevel-free lines. The dial is a brushed grey, with applied indexes marked with luminous dots at the end. The matching leaf shaped hands are also luminous filled.

The Movement

The 5960P-001is powered by Patek Philippes CH 28-520 IRM QA 24H calibre the first in-house automatic chronograph movement by the brand, . It features 40 jewels, a vertical clutch flyback column-wheel chronograph, power-reserve indicator, annual calendar day/night display and unidirectional 21k rotor. This piece bears the Genevaseal, pre-dating the Patek Philippe seal found on movements produced after 2009. The movement is beautifully finished, with exquisite chamfering on all angles, polishing and decoration, in the form of Geneva striping.

The Set

This Patek Philippe ref. 5960P-001comes as full-set, with its original box, Certificate of Origin, leather wallet and setting pin.

It comes on one of our light taupe saffiano and light grey suede straps, and is also accompanied by its original Patek Philippealligator strap and 18-carat white gold deployant clasp.

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