Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon 5002G Complications
Complications

Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon 5002G Complications

By amanico · Jun 1, 2019 · 25 replies
amanico
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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Nicolas (amanico) presents the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon Ref. 5002G, a watch he describes as both a legend and a cult piece. He delves into its impressive array of 12 complications, sparking a discussion among collectors about the true definition of a 'Grande Complication' in modern horology. This post offers a deep dive into one of Patek Philippe's most intricate creations and the evolving terminology surrounding high complications.

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Here are some pictures to be credited to Phillips who recently auctioned one:





Described and called by Patek as a Grande Complication, which is not totally correct, as to deserve this title, it should have a Chronograph, and more precisely, a Rattrapante. But it is a watch with several " noble " complications, 12!

The 12 complications are: 

Perpetual Calendar ( 1 ) with a Retrograde Date ( 2 ), Week Day ( 3 ), Date ( 4 ), Month ( 5 ), Leap Year Cycle ( 6 ),Age of the Moon ( 7 ), Minute Repeater ( 8 ), Tourbillon ( 9 ), Map of the Sky ( 10 ), Sidereal Time ( 11 ) and angular movements of the moon and phases of the moon ( 12 )

That way to count the complications always made me smile, but all the brands do the same. 

The movement is the Cal R TO 27 QR SID LU CL, 686 components, 38 mm big and 12,61 mm thick. 

As for the case dimensions, the diameter is very reasonable, with 42, 8 mm. But the height is consequent, to say the least: 16, 25 mm. 

Two superb faces... 





Best,

Nicolas

About the IWC Big Pilot Ref. 5002

The Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon reference 5002 stands as a highly complex double-faced wristwatch within the brand's grand complication offerings. It integrates a significant array of functions, distinguishing it as a flagship model for collectors interested in horological complexity and traditional craftsmanship. The reference is notable for its comprehensive display of astronomical indications alongside traditional timekeeping and calendar functions.

This timepiece features a case crafted from precious metal, housing a manually wound movement. The watch is equipped with a sapphire crystal on both the front and reverse sides, allowing for observation of the intricate dials and the movement. Its substantial case dimensions accommodate the complex caliber, which includes a minute repeater and a tourbillon, alongside multiple calendar and astronomical displays.

As a grand complication, the reference 5002 appeals to collectors seeking Patek Philippe's highest level of mechanical artistry. Its dual-dial presentation and extensive complication set, including a perpetual calendar with retrograde date, sidereal time, and a sky chart, position it as a significant piece for those focused on technical achievement and the brand's heritage in complex watchmaking. The limited production and intricate nature contribute to its collector relevance.

Specifications

Caliber
R TO 27 QR SID LU CL
Case
Platinum
Diameter
42.8 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
25m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CE
Centurionone
Jun 1, 2019
Age old argument which won't be solved in my lifetime :).

[nt]

AM
amanico
Jun 1, 2019
The first grande complication wrist watch certainly were the IWC Destriero Schafusia, and the Blancpain 1735. In the article,

It is said that the watch has to be a grande et petite sonnerie... Which is correct. The problem is that the term " Grande Complication " has been hackneyed by the brands marketing teams, and that nowadays, you can see, with a bit of surprise, that a simple perpetual calendar is called " Grande Complication "... A pity... Best, Nicolas

IZ
Izhik
Jun 1, 2019
to make things even more accurate, the first ever grand complicated watch was the Blancpain 1735, which was released in 1991

the Destriero Scafusia by IWC showed up in 1993....all the others, which were certainly inspired by those two followed later, including PP...

AM
amanico
Jun 1, 2019
You are right. The IWC DS came out in 1993. [nt]

CE
Centurionone
Jun 1, 2019
Agreed, it is a travesty, just in the name of marketing.. [nt]

AM
amanico
Jun 1, 2019
What I think, indeed. [nt]

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