Patek Philippe

The Patek Philippe reference 5216 stands amongst the most technically sophisticated and desirable grand complications in the manufacture’s contemporary production. Combining a minute repeater, tourbillon, retrograde perpetual calendar, and moonphase indication within an elegant platinum case, the reference perfectly balances supreme mechanical complexity with refined classical aesthetics. Introduced in platinum in 2013 as the successor to the legendary ref. 5016, the 5216 modernized its predecessor’s celebrated formula through a larger Calatrava-style case with improved acoustics for the minute repeater, while preserving the beautifully balanced retrograde calendar display that has become synonymous with some of Patek Philippe’s greatest complicated wristwatches.

At the heart of the watch is the manually wound calibre RTO 27 PS QR, an extraordinary movement which contains over 500 components while still remaining exceptionally compact. In keeping with Patek Philippe tradition, the tourbillon remains hidden beneath the dial, both to protect the escapement oils from light exposure but also for discrete luxury, only to be revealed at the owner's discretion.

The iconic pairing of a black dial with a platinum case is among the most visually striking combinations in modern haute horlogerie. While the reference ordinarily features polished white gold hands and indexes, the present example is uniquely distinguished by contrasting bright white hands and indexes, creating exceptional legibility and a dramatic “tuxedo” aesthetic. The watch furthermore originates from an exceptionally important collection containing several custom-ordered and factory-modified Patek Philippe wristwatches, including the unique ref. 5070P and ref. 5970G with similarly contrasting black dials and white indexes offered at Sotheby’s New York in December 2025, lots 24 and 25. Specially ordered through Tiffany & Co. New York in 2015, as confirmed by its accompanying Tiffany & Co. invoice, the present watch represents an exceptionally rare example of Patek Philippe accommodating bespoke client requests, a testament to the importance of the original owner.

Produced in platinum for only three years between 2013 and 2016, the ref. 5216 is believed to be among the rarest modern grand complications manufactured by Patek Philippe, with scholarship suggesting that perhaps only 20 to 30 examples were cased in platinum in total. By comparison, its predecessor, the ref. 5016, remained in production for approximately 17 years with more than 200 examples believed produced, including well over 100 in platinum. Rarely appearing publicly, the 5216P has consequently become one of the most collectible and revered modern grand complications ever created by the manufacture.

The present lot is offered complete with its presentation box, Certificate of Origin, folio, additional solid case back and setting pin.