A Bold Step in Steel with Complication Mastery
The Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5960/1A-001 holds a special place in the maison’s modern history, not only for its combination of two highly admired complications but also for its daring case material. While Patek Philippe is known for crafting complicated watches in precious metals, the 5960/1A-001 broke tradition by being produced in stainless steel. This bold annual calendar patek philippe price elevated the model into a league of its own, offering collectors a rare blend of practicality, durability, and the prestige of a complication-rich timepiece. With its integrated bracelet and sporty aesthetic, it has become one of the most talked-about pieces in the Annual Calendar Chronograph collection.
The Dual Complication Concept
Patek Philippe has always been at the forefront of functional innovation, and the 5960 exemplifies this spirit.
Annual Calendar Function
Introduced in 1996, the Annual Calendar was revolutionary for requiring adjustment only once per year, at the end of February. In the 5960/1A-001, this feature is displayed across three apertures at the top of the dial, providing clarity and ease of reading.
Chronograph Integration
The chronograph is operated by a column wheel and vertical clutch, ensuring smooth engagement and precision. The central chronograph hand and subdial registers allow wearers to track elapsed time, making this timepiece as functional as it is elegant.
A Design That Redefined Tradition
The 5960/1A-001 is instantly recognizable thanks to its contemporary and somewhat unconventional design choices.
Case and Bracelet
Crafted entirely from stainless steel, the 40.5mm case is paired with an integrated steel bracelet. This decision was groundbreaking, as complicated Patek Philippe watches are usually associated with precious metals. The polished finish enhances its luxurious presence, while the robust build lends it a sporty versatility.
Dial Character
The watch features a silver opaline dial with blackened applied hour markers, lending it both sophistication and modernity. Three calendar windows—day, date, and month—sit beneath 12 o’clock, while a monocounter at 6 o’clock combines chronograph functions with a 12-hour and 60-minute register. Red accents add a dynamic touch, further highlighting the sporty DNA of this unique reference.
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The Movement: Caliber CH 28-520 IRM QA 24H
At its heart, the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5960/1A-001 is powered by the in-house caliber CH 28-520 IRM QA 24H.
- Automatic Winding: Ensures practicality for daily use.
- Column-Wheel Chronograph: Provides precise and smooth operation.
- Annual Calendar Module: Automatically adjusts for 30- and 31-day months.
- Power Reserve Indicator: Displayed on the dial, adding functionality.
- 24-Hour Indicator: Helps distinguish between day and night settings.
The movement is beautifully finished with Côtes de Genève, polished bevels, and a gold rotor, visible through the sapphire crystal caseback.
Price of the 5960/1A-001
The Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5960/1A-001 has become highly desirable due to its rarity and distinctive character.
Retail Pricing
- Upon its release, the retail price was set around US$49,000–51,000, positioning it as a more accessible entry into Patek Philippe’s complicated offerings.
Secondary Market Value
- Today, the model commands US$75,000–110,000 on the secondary market, depending on condition and completeness.
- Collectors place a premium on full sets with box and papers, as production numbers were limited.
Why Collectors Cherish the 5960/1A-001
The allure of this model extends beyond its technical merits.
A Rare Steel Complication
Patek Philippe’s decision to release a complicated model in stainless steel was unexpected, making the 5960/1A-001 an outlier and, therefore, highly collectible.
Versatility and Modern Appeal
Unlike its gold or platinum counterparts, the steel case and bracelet give it a modern, sporty appeal. It’s a watch that can transition seamlessly from formal to casual settings, enhancing its desirability.
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Final Thoughts on the 5960/1A-001
The Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5960/1A-001 is more than just a timepiece—it’s a bold statement in the brand’s history. By merging the annual calendar with a chronograph and encasing it in stainless steel, Patek Philippe created a watch that is both practical and iconic. Its rising value reflects its significance, but the true worth lies in its unique role as a symbol of tradition reimagined. From the perspective of Patekphilippeannualcalendar Watch, the 5960/1A-001 proves that innovation doesn’t always mean adding more—it sometimes means rethinking what already exists and daring to do it differently.
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