Patek Philippe In-Line Perpetual Calendar
For this release Patek Philippe created a brand new caliber with a calendar module that was built from scratch for the “Patek Philippe In-Line Perpetual Calendar”. The “Nautilus” tends to get most of the attention, but let’s not forget that when Patek gets “complicated” they tend to craft some of the best watches in the industry. Especially in regards to their perpetual calendars, which appears here in a complete in-line display. In terms of craftsmanship this is quite a feat. Patek Philippe may have produced similar complications in their historic pocket watches, but making a wristwatch with this feature is highly complicated.
Beyond the extensive labor the assembly of all these intrinsic moving parts requires, it’s quite a challenge to jam-pack all the components in there without thicker proportions.The 41.3mm round case is made of platinum with a similar style to one of their previous annual calendar watches (Ref#: 5235), but with a slightly larger diameter of 11.07mm. At this height point it’s certainly one of the larger perpetual calendar models in the Patek Philippe catalog. 
Mounted to the case is a wide, flat bezel with a polished finish. It comes equipped with a setting-crown engraved with the iconic Patek Calatrava cross and tapered lugs for a comfortable wrist fit. 
On the flip-side Patek clearly opted for an exhibition case back, which allows to view the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It comes equipped with multiple rose gold gears and shinny purple jewels in full display.
Despite a very complicated interior, on the outside this is an overall simple and very refined case design. Patek has claimed that this new perpetual calendar module requires 60% more parts, or approximately an additional 118 components, compared to a conventional module. As we follow the smooth contours of the case we find a series of three very discreet push-pieces, which allow to adjust the perpetual calendar. 
Plus one more corrector tucked-away underneath to adjust the moon-phase. All topped by a sapphire crystal that assist with water-resistance reaching up to 30 meters (98 feet).
Time is exhibited on a blue, black -gradient dial with a vertical satin finish. This lacquered gradient blue darkens to black as it nears the edges, as well as creating an overall textured finish. It features white gold hour index markers and central baton hands, followed by a ring of minute markers, with Arabic numerals for every 5-minute increment.
On the upper-half of the dial we encounter the “PATEK PHILIPPE GENEVE” logo inscription above the in-line perpetual calendar display, which is clearly the main attraction and most costly feature on this elaborate timepiece. 
While on the lower-half is a large sub-seconds with an understated moon-phase in its midst. Plus small round windows to indicate the day/night shifts and leap years.
Patek Philippe In-Line Perpetual Calendar
The “Patek Philippe In-Line Perpetual Calendar” (Ref#: 5236P-001) is powered by the new in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 31-260 PS QL with 55 jewels. 503 components, and 28,800 vph. 
It comes equipped with an off-center platinum mini-rotor. Power reserve on this timepiece can last up to 48 hours, when fully wound. Mounted to the watch is a hand-stitched blue alligator leather strap with square scales, secured to the wrist by a fold-over clasp. For more up to date information visit the official Patek Philippe website here.
MSRP: $130,110.00 USD
