Patek Philippe

• cal. 27-70 QR manual winding nickel lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 28 jewels, Gyromax balance • silvered dial, gold applied Arabic numerals, three subsidiary dials for constant seconds combined with 24-hour indication, 30-minute register with leap-year display and date with fan-form aperture for moon-phases, apertures for day and month in Italian • 18k yellow gold case, split seconds chronograph pushers to the band and crown, screw-down back • case, dial and movement signed • with a 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe folding clasp

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be required. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, split second chronograph, calendar and moon-phase functional. Dial and hands in splendid condition. Case is very good condition with very minor scuffs and scratches due to wear. Clasp with scuffs and scratches. An elegant and complicated piece, to recommend.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Launched in 1994 and ending production in 2010, the renowned Ref. 5004 is, to this day, still heralded as one of the most complicated chronographs ever created by Patek Philippe.  Instantly recognisable with its prominent, crown integrated pusher and attractive downturned fluted lugs the Ref. 5004 is the perfect synergy of an elegant aesthetic, masterful complication and understated dimension, deservedly dubbed 'the most ambitious creation' of the 'Grand Complications'.

The present lot houses one of 500 pieces made in the first series of the upgraded Nouvelle Lemania 27 70 QR movements. Developed especially for Patek Philippe it is comprised of 407 individual components all required to work effortlessly with one another to operate the watch's complicated functions.  The Ref. 5004 is, in fact, the last complicated reference to feature an out-sourced calibre base.  

To the best of our knowledge this watch has never before been presented at auction.