Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5040J 18K Yellow Gold Tonneau Case with Box and Papers

We're still seeing incredible demand for neo-vintage, complicated watches with leather straps, so could it get any better than this stunning grand complication from Patek Philippe? This is an exceptional example of one of the most underappreciated references—the 5040 in yellow gold—featuring a unique tonneau case and a captivating Breguet numeral dial.

Most perpetual calendars are housed in traditional round cases, so Patek Philippe broke away from convention when it introduced the 5040 in 1992. Drawing inspiration from watches of the interwar period, the 5040 was the first Patek Philippe perpetual calendar to feature a tonneau-shaped case, measuring 35 mm across (and 42 mm lug to lug). We absolutely adore this piece! While many opt for a more conventional round case, this tonneau shape fits incredibly well on the wrist. The profile and lugs complement the design beautifully, giving it a youthful yet sporty edge, without sacrificing the classic elegance.

This particular piece is an early example from 1992, featuring what Patek calls an “Argenté” dial with Breguet numerals and a German calendar (which makes sense, as it was originally sold in Germany).

We’re really impressed by the quality and tone of the dial, and the case remains in pristine condition, with the gold hallmarks clearly visible. The watch is currently fitted with a display caseback, offering a full view of the cal. 240Q movement, complete with its 21K gold rotor, but the original 18K yellow gold caseback is also included.

Each sub-dial on this piece provides two sets of information: the right-hand sub-dial shows the leap year indicator and the day of the week; the 6 o’clock sub-dial shows the moon phase and the date; and the left-hand sub-dial displays the 24-hour clock and the month. These sub-dials are arranged in concentric circles, creating a clear hierarchy—day, month, and date on the outer track, with the leap year, moon phase, and 24-hour clock nestled inside.

The watch comes on a Patek Philippe leather strap and is also equipped with an 18K yellow gold PP folding buckle. This watch was originally sold in Germany in 1993, as confirmed by the original certificate of origin. Additionally, it comes with its original inner and outer boxes—plus, the inner box even doubles as a watch winder!

The watch also includes its leather paper holder, the second 18K yellow gold caseback, booklets, and the yellow gold corrector pin, making this a complete set!

While the 3940 is often overlooked, the 5040 is perhaps even more underappreciated, making it a fantastic value for anyone looking to step into the world of Patek Philippe Grand Complications. It's a beautifully elegant piece that fits perfectly on the wrist and stands as one of Patek’s finest designs. Reach out today!

Specifications:

- Patek Philippe 5040 J
- 35mm x 42mm 18K yellow gold tonneau case
- Movement no. 773xxx / Case no. 293xxxx
- Dates to 1993
- Original second 18K yellow gold caseback
- Opaline dial with Breguet numerals
- German calendar
- Automatic movement Cal. 240Q
- Patek leather strap with original Patek Philippe 18K gold Calatrava folding clasp
- Certificate of origin, stating sale in 1993, wallet, booklets, and original boxes, plus PP corrector pin, PP invoice for the service
- Fully serviced by Patek Philippe December 2024
- Still under warranty by Patek Philippe
- Free worldwide FedEx Priority shipping