Patek Philippe 5059 (Pre-owned - Good) — USD 37,500 on eBay

The Patek Philippe Reference 5059 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch featuring a retrograde date display. It is notable for its officer's style case, which includes a hinged dust cover over the sapphire case back, a design element that harks back to historical pocket watches and early wristwatches. This reference was part of Patek Philippe's offerings that showcased complex calendar mechanisms without additional grand complications such as minute repeaters or tourbillons, positioning it as a sophisticated yet focused horological instrument. This particular reference is housed in an 18k yellow gold case measuring 36mm in diameter. The case features a polished finish and the distinctive hinged back. Powering the watch is the self-winding caliber 315 S QR, a movement known for its reliability and the integration of the perpetual calendar with retrograde date. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal on both the front and the display back, offering a view of the finely finished movement. For collectors, the Reference 5059 represents a significant example of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar tradition, particularly due to its officer's case design. This feature distinguishes it from other perpetual calendar models of its era that typically featured solid or standard display backs. The retrograde date function adds a visual dynamic to the dial, appealing to those who appreciate mechanical ingenuity and classic design cues in a complicated wristwatch.