Patek Philippe 5496P Perpetual Calendar Silver Dial
Collection

Patek Philippe 5496P Perpetual Calendar Silver Dial

By Mark in Paris · Sep 21, 2017 · 25 replies
Mark in Paris
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
25 replies11233 views3 photos
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Mark in Paris offers a compelling look at the Patek Philippe Ref. 5496P, a perpetual calendar often overlooked in discussions. His detailed photographs and observations highlight the watch's unique aesthetic, which blends classical refinement with a more contemporary, angular case design. Mark's post serves as an excellent resource for collectors seeking to understand the subtle distinctions and appeal of this platinum perpetual calendar.


Hi everyone,

I have tried this model we don't see nor read much about, a while ago and think it deserves a proper post.

The 5296, 5396 and 5496 references (resp. 3 hands, Annual Calendar and Perpetual Calendar), share the same case aesthetics (in 39.5mm). Indeed we are provided with straighter lines, angles, in a pure way, that make this watch less "traditional" in its spirit while remaining classical and refined.

The fact this version is in Platinum and with a silver vertically brushed dial brings a lot to its discretion and elegance.

Let me precise that, though is looks consequently colder on pictures, the polished markers, hands, case etc... give that shine that make it exciting and very appealing to look at.

FYI, the watch pictured here has a plastic cover.

As usual, this 5496P is equipped with the 324 caliber visible through the Sapphire caseback and displays its retrograde date (also available in the 5159 rounder version) with the Perpetual Calendar usual date.

As a sidenote, you can find more details in the review I made of the 5496R, here:  www.watchprosite.com

I love that wrist shot, it shows maybe a little more trully how it looks in the real compared to the 2 other pictures. The model behind is a gorgeous little 5140G I could see as well smile



This watch is I think perfectly balanced regarding outfits combinations in the sense that it would work perfectly with a suit but also with a casual wearing (jeans). We are more and more able to wear casual or smart casual clothes, even at work and those classical models (among others) I think work fantastically in that context, especially with a vertically brushed dial.




You can see here below a little better the touch of red on the retrograde date hand which helps finding this info at a glance and adds a little touch of modernism to this classical dial layout.




I hope you enjoyed them and please do not hesitate to give your impression on this watch smile

Best, Mark

About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5496

The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5496 distinguishes itself within the Calatrava line by incorporating a retrograde perpetual calendar complication. This reference combines the classic aesthetic of the Calatrava with a sophisticated horological function, presenting the date on a retrograde scale that sweeps back to the beginning of the month. It represents a more complex offering compared to time-only Calatrava models, appealing to collectors who appreciate both traditional design and mechanical ingenuity.

This timepiece features a 39.5mm platinum case, housing the self-winding Caliber 324 S QR movement. The movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours and is visible through a sapphire crystal case back, with an interchangeable solid platinum back also provided. The dial is champagne in color, complemented by rose gold applied numeral date markers and other applied gold markers, all protected by a sapphire crystal.

For collectors, the 5496 offers a blend of Patek Philippe's enduring design language and its expertise in grand complications. Its retrograde perpetual calendar function, combined with the precious metal case, positions it as a significant piece for those seeking a technically advanced yet understated watch. The inclusion of two case backs and a platinum deployant clasp further enhances its appeal.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal.324 S QR
Case
Platinum
Diameter
39.5mm
Dial
champagne
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CR
crown comfort
Sep 21, 2017

To me, this is most convincing calendar watch from Patek's current collection. Easy to read, retrograde date function and very classic case and dial.

PR
Pretty Boy
Sep 21, 2017

Actually, 5496 is my favorite PC only in Patek's current collection. It's very legible and not too "old school". I also like the retrograde date. The -014 with the honey-brown dial is really cool (the other dial versions of the P are a little bit boring, IMO). My AD still has a -014 and I tried it on a couple of times but so far I have not pulled the trigger. However, I'm still considering this reference. Best, Volker

TH
TheMadDruid
Sep 21, 2017

Like my 5230, and the 5396 you mention. And i think it looks best in white metal. (Although the 5230 RG is a fine piece.) The layout of the dial is very pleasing and practical. But I'm not sure how I feel about the red tip on the date hand. It seems to add some levity (?) to an otherwise very serious watch. I guess it would be best to see it in a shop before passing judgment. It's great that you chose to do this review, Mark, as it is a piece that isn't seen here often and it deserves to be. Tha

KE
keks
Sep 21, 2017

I am a fan of this reference, most favor the brown dial. Tried it on last year and was quite impressed. The silver dial is also nice but has a colder feel, for me as I live in a cold place a warmer dial helps me through the darker half of the year

AL
Alkiro1
Sep 21, 2017

With the 5205 for instance (and even if it’s an annual and not a perpetual calendar), Patek Philippe really knows how to display the date elements. That seems so easy for PP... and so enjoyable for us. Here, the retrograde date really adds something and offers a nice little β€œtwist” to its owner in my opinion. Really interesting timepiece. Best wishes Alkiro

DR
drphileasfogg
Sep 21, 2017

And it is too big for my taste.

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