Watch Of The Week: The Patek Philippe Grand Complication Ref. 5316/50P

With Watches & Wonders just around the corner, it has me reflecting on some of last year’s novelties — ultimately hypothesizing what is to come for the 2024 year. Of course, one of the most anticipated drops comes from Patek Philippe; and as you can never be 100% accurate on what they will release, my mind is wandering back to the Grand Complications. More specifically, the Grand Complication Ref. 5316 in the platinum case.

A more modern take on the timepiece, the platinum case houses the dial under a blue metalized sapphire crystal with a subtle black-gradient rim, complete with a navy blue embossed calfskin strap. With a case diameter of 40.2 mm and a height of 13.23 mm, designed to be humidity and dust-protected, the 5316/50P Grand Complications watch marries robustness with refined luxury. It stands as a beacon of horological excellence, inviting its wearer to not only keep track of time but to cherish it as a precious commodity.

The manually wound R TO 27 PS QR caliber is a technical feat, bringing together five of the most coveted complications in watchmaking: a minute repeater, a tourbillon, and a perpetual calendar with a retrograde date display, complemented by a moon-phase indicator. Each function is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and innovation that Patek Philippe is renowned for, offering connoisseurs a symphony of mechanical precision and artistry.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the 5316/50P is an exemplar of mechanical mastery with features like the minute repeater with classic gongs, the perpetual calendar with its retrograde date hand, and the precise moon phases. The gold applied faceted “obus” hour markers on the sapphire crystal dial and the choice of interchangeable solid and sapphire crystal case backs offer an intimate glimpse into the watch’s inner workings, celebrating the art of mechanical complexity.