The Patek Philippe 5960P Annual Calendar Chronograph Watch: innovative complications and traditional craftsmanship

The Patek Philippe 5960P Annual Calendar Chronograph watch is a timepiece eagerly awaited by connoisseurs of haute horlogerie.  This watch represents the realization of several Patek Philippe premieres -- it is the first selfwinding chronograph caliber developed by the legendary manufacturer.  Also for the very first time, the Patek Philippe engineers and watchmakers have chosen to use a vertical -- rather than horizontal -- coupling mechanism.  In addition to these technical attributes, the Patek Philippe 5960P watch also features a power reserve indicator, and the highly popular annual calendar mechanism, which requires a date adjustment only once per year, in the month of February.

Since 1839, horological innovation, aesthetic refinement, and technical brilliance have been watchwords for Patek Philippe.  Staggering complications are synonymous with this brand, which has on several occasions has produced the most complex timepieces known in the world.  However, the brand is also associated with practical complications, and the Ref. 5960P is an ideal example of this.  In contrast to the extremely beautiful, but more technically delicate horizontally-coupled chronographs which the brand has traditionally produced, the Patek Philippe Ref. 5960P Annual Calendar Chronograph watch is engineered for constant use. Its complex movement has been designed from the outset to allow continual running of the chronograph mechanism, with no risk of damage or undue wear and tear to the gear train.  In addition, the column-wheel controlled chronograph offers a flyback function, which allows the central chronograph seconds hand to be resent to zero at any time the hand is in motion. 

Despite its innovative attributes, however, the movement inside the Patek Philippe 5960P Annual Calendar Chronograph watch faithfully upholds the traditional haute de gamme quality which is a calling card of any movement from this manufacturer.  Each of the 456 parts comprising the CH 28-520 IRM QA 24H caliber is individually finished by hand.  As a result of this constructive and decorative quality, Patek Philippe is able to stamp the coveted Geneva Seal Hallmark on the bridge of each movement; this subtle mark of superior craftsmanship has existed since 1886, being governed by twelve absolute guidelines dictated by the Canton of Geneva.

The Patek Philippe Ref. 5960P Annual Calendar Chronograph watch is produced exclusively in platinum; it is further distinguished by its unique anthracite dial, and contrasting silvered chronograph mono-counter.  A hand-sewn crocodile strap and a platinum deployant clasp completes this remarkable watch, which is becoming an absolute must-have for dedicated collectors.