Reference Guide
CrookedOak's insightful post revisits the Patek Philippe Ref. 5100 10-Day Power Reserve, a limited-edition timepiece launched to commemorate the new millennium. This article highlights why this particular reference, often overlooked, represents a significant horological achievement and a unique design statement from Patek Philippe. CrookedOak meticulously details its groundbreaking movement and distinctive aesthetics, inviting collectors to appreciate its enduring value.
To celebrate the arrival of the new millennium in the year 2000, Patek Philippe created a limited edition series of 3,000 watches under the ref. 5100. Of these 3,000 watches, only 1,500 were made in 18K yellow gold with white dial, 300 in platinum with black dial, 450 in 18K white gold with blue dial and 750 in 18K rose gold with a brown dial. This watch featuring an entirely new chronometer movement with a 10-day power reserve represented a first in the history of watchmaking. This manual wound rectangular chronometer fitted with caliber 28-20/220 features a power reserve indicator and subsidiary seconds and was issued with a unique individual rating certificate issued jointly by the C.O.S.C. —Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres–, Switzerland's official chronometer certifications bureau and the Geneva Seal Institute. This is one of those Pateks that one rarely comes into contact and that most collectors forget about. Therefore, we decided to honor one of the most impressive timepieces ever manufactured to celebrate the arrival of the new millennium 14 years ago.
This fascinating watch featuring a rectangular case shaped
on its sides in a way were it would recall the lines of a manta-ray, features a
white dial with applied Arabic numerals, a power reserve indicator at 12 and a
subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock. The beautiful dial is elegant and
distinctive with the characteristic touches of Patek and fitted with yellow
gold dauphine hands.
Fitted with one of the most unique cases we have seen across
Patek Philippe timepieces, this watch was sold accompanied by a silver
commemorative coin featuring the iconic sculpture located at the Patek Philippe
manufacture in Geneva inaugurated in 1997. The coin was presented along with a
small presentation stand perfectly suited to decorate the owners credenza in
that corner office.
This exceptional timepiece not only welcomed the third millennium but also marked an important milestone in the history of Patek Philippe and the horological world. Its unique lines and irreverent design, house one of the most advanced calibres ever developed by Patek Philippe and one that is somewhat under appreciated by watch collectors. The case back allows for full view of this magnificent calibre fitted with 29 jewels and the astonishing finish and advanced design that only Patek Philippe can deliver.
If you happen to come across one of this rare timepieces, pay attention to its capricious lines and admire the horological prodigy that its calibre represents. Vary rarely one runs into a timepiece with a magnificent 10-day power reserve.
Originally posted on Watch Collecting Lifestyle
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5100 was introduced in 2000 as a limited edition to commemorate the new millennium. This reference stands out within the Calatrava line for its distinctive 'Manta Ray' shaped case, departing from the more traditional round Calatrava forms. It was produced in very limited quantities across different precious metals, making it a notable special edition for collectors of the brand.
The 5100 features a manual-wind caliber 28-20/220, a movement specifically developed for this model, known for its elongated form to fit the unique case shape. The case is characterized by its rectangular, slightly curved profile with integrated lugs, and it is fitted with a sapphire crystal. The specific variant mentioned, the 5100P-001, is crafted in platinum.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Patek Philippe's limited-production commemorative pieces and those drawn to watches with distinctive case designs. Its unique aesthetic and the bespoke movement developed for it position the 5100 as a significant, albeit unconventional, entry in the brand's modern history, particularly for enthusiasts of shaped timepieces.
I had one in Rose Gold with a dark grey dial. I wore it daily for a year or so and then sold it off to buy another Patek. In truth, I wish I still had it. They are very nice timepieces! Thanks for posting!
Thus far I've consoled myself with something similar but less fine (and much less costly). But I don't know how long I'm going to be able to hold out!
I'll return it, I promise!
After you 🧛‍♂️
Like you, I love this watch. It’s a technical tour de force with unmatched elegance and sublime curves and detail on the case. The certification and its limited edition status mark it out as a very special Patek. For all these reasons it deserves its full page photo in the Patek biography. One day the collecting public will realise that there’s more to life than a 5711 and perhaps they will turn there attention to this covert beauty.
manta ray, correct ?? How many turns does it take to wind fully for 10 days ? Do you fingers get tired ?
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