Patek Philippe Ref. 5050P Perpetual Calendar

quattro · 2026-02-23T15:34:48Z

Explore the rare Patek Philippe Ref. 5050P, a 1994 perpetual calendar with unique Roman numerals. Discover its history, collector insights, and market value.

quattro

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

32 replies1862 views5 photos

Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, presents the Patek Philippe Ref. 5050P, a perpetual calendar from 1994. His post highlights a particularly rare configuration of this reference, featuring applied Roman numerals and the absence of an 'Automatic' signature at 6 o'clock. Emmanuel's detailed analysis and stunning photography invite the community to appreciate the nuanced beauty and historical significance of this exceptional timepiece.

32 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Some photos really have the power of making you fall in love with a watch...

This ref. 5050P (36 mm case, caliber 315 S QR) is from 1994 and I find it perfect.

Its specific configuration (applied Roman numerals, no 'Automatic' at 6 o'clock) is very rare: according to Phillips, who sold another example which belonged to the grandson of legendary collector Henry Graves, only 14 such examples are currently known...

What do you think?

Best, Emmanuel

credit: Herschmann Vintage

About the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Ref. 5050

The Patek Philippe Reference 5050 introduced a significant design element to the brand's perpetual calendar offerings: the retrograde date display. This reference was notable for being the first Patek Philippe wristwatch to feature a retrograde date, a complication that sees the date hand sweep along an arc and then instantly spring back to the beginning of the month. It represented a modern interpretation of traditional calendar functions, distinguishing it from other perpetual calendar models that utilized sub-dials for date indication. This innovation provided a cleaner dial aesthetic while maintaining full calendar functionality.

Crafted in 18k yellow gold, the case of the Reference 5050 measures 36 mm in diameter, offering a balanced presence on the wrist. The watch is powered by the self-winding caliber 240 Q, a movement known for its slim profile and micro-rotor construction, which allows for a more compact case design. This movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch is water-resistant to 25 meters, suitable for everyday wear.

For collectors, the Reference 5050 holds importance as the progenitor of Patek Philippe's retrograde perpetual calendar lineage. Its introduction marked a new chapter in the brand's exploration of calendar complications, appealing to those who appreciate both technical innovation and classic design. The reference was produced from 1993 to 2008, and while the initial models featured the caliber 240 Q, later iterations sometimes incorporated the caliber 315 S QR or 324 S QR, reflecting ongoing movement developments within the brand.

Specifications

Caliber: 240 Q

Case: 18k Yellow Gold

Diameter: 36 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 25m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Ref. 5050 has two primary dial versions: one with Roman numerals and another with baton markers. While the Roman numeral version is rarer, personal preference often dictates which is favored.
The specific configuration of the Ref. 5050P with applied Roman numerals and no 'Automatic' signature at 6 o'clock is exceptionally rare, with only 14 known examples identified as the Ref. 5050P-018. One such example belonged to Reginald 'Pete' H. Fullerton Jr., grandson of legendary collector Henry Graves.
Some collectors find the Roman numerals and date numbers on the dial of the 5050P to be too busy, preferring a cleaner aesthetic, while others appreciate the exquisite detail and historical rarity.
For some, the dial's balance could be improved by completing the moon phase circle and adding a descriptive, rare signature like 'Retrograde' at 6 o'clock instead of 'Automatic,' which is seen as diminishing.
The rarity of the Platinum 5050 with Roman numerals, especially if confirmed by its certificate as an original configuration, makes it a highly desirable piece for serious collectors.
A specific example of the Ref. 5050P with this rare configuration was listed for CHF 82,500.00 by Herschmann Vintage, while another full-set example sold at Phillips for HK$609,600.

The Discussion

Concord

Feb 23, 2026

Dear friend, how can we agree or disagree without having full picture?

Profile please

quattro

Feb 23, 2026

They don't provide it.

But here's one from another example sold by Phillips.

Concord

Feb 23, 2026

Yes, it is perfect