Introduced in 1992, the Patek Philippe reference 5040 brought one of watchmaking's most sophisticated complications into an unconventional case. At a time when perpetual calendars were traditionally housed in round cases, Patek Philippe introduced a sculpted, Art Deco-inspired silhouette reminiscent of the elegant wristwatches of the 1920s and 1930s.
Its distinctive tonneau case, applied Breguet numerals and gracefully curved profile conceal the legendary caliber 240 Q, the same ultra-thin perpetual calendar movement used in the celebrated reference 3940.
Produced for approximately fifteen years, the 5040 is a compelling example of Patek Philippe's ability to unite historic design with sophisticated mechanical engineering.
| Reference |
5040J |
| Collection |
Perpetual Calendar |
| Year |
1997 |
| Case |
18K yellow gold |
| Shape |
Tonneau / tortue |
| Dimensions |
Approximately 35 × 42.5 mm |
| Thickness |
Approximately 9 mm |
| Dial |
Typically silvered |
| Numerals |
Applied gold Breguet |
| Hands |
Breguet-style |
| Movement |
Automatic, caliber 240 Q; later 240 QL |
| Jewels |
27 on caliber 240 Q |
| Power reserve |
Approximately 48 hours |
| Complications |
Perpetual calendar, moon phases, leap-year and 24-hour indicator |
| Caseback |
Sapphire exhibition |
| Strap |
Leather with an 18K gold buckle |
| Collateral |
Original Papers |