Patek Philippe Celestial Grand Complication, 2004

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

If you’re searching for a superlative timepiece from the top manufacture in the world, there’s really only one name you need to know — and that’s Patek Philippe. Since 1839, Patek’s workshops have turned out the finest pocket and wristwatches on Earth, with their horological wares becoming a byword for quality, accuracy, and artistry. From simple, time-only Calatrava dress watches to some of the most complicated timepieces in the world, Patek Philippe remains supreme. Such is even more accurate when speaking of celestial complications — watches that display not only the time, but also the phase of the moon, sidereal time, lunation, and more. The Reference 5102G-001, one of the most exquisite examples of a celestial complication in contemporary watchmaking, is also one of the most impressive Patek Philippe timepieces ever constructed. Housed in a 43mm 18K white gold case with a magnificent, half-Calatrava Cross motif engraved as a band into the case flank, it features a sapphire crystal with a compass etching; dual, signed white gold winding/setting and complication setting crowns at 2 an 4 o’clock; a smooth polished bezel; and one of the most enchanting dials we’ve ever seen: three metallized sapphire crystal discs contain an outer hour scale with applied Roman indices; an inner, framed section of the sky as visible from Geneva; a white gold, 'skeletonized-feuille’ handset; compass bearings; and a revolving moon phase indicator. While the upper crown on this substantial, white gold beauty controls the time setting and winding, the lower crown controls the celestial complications — the moon phase, lunar day, lunation, and sidereal time. While this information can certainly be easily obtained via computer, the engineering and horological expertise needed to convey it via a wristwatch is remarkable, and simply needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Powering this unique timepiece is the automatic-winding Patek Philippe Calibre 240 LU CL with 45 jewels and a power reserve of 48 hours. Composed of 315 separate parts, it features a Gyromax balance and the Patek Philippe Seal of accuracy. Meanwhile, paired to the watch’s artful lugs via screws is a thin, signed black crocodile leather strap with a signed, 18K white gold pin buckle, ensuring the watch looks just as elegant on-wrist as it does within its impressive presentation box, which is included upon sale along with other factory goodies. Dating to 2004, this remarkable timepiece is proof positive of Patek Philippe’s stature as the world’s foremost watchmaker. Don’t believe us? Then you haven’t seen this superlative watch in the flesh, and we happily invite you to do so!