Yasuharu Abe's Patek Philippe Theory ~No. 288~ Introducing the rare and exceptional "Perpetual Calendar Split-Seconds Chronograph" Ref. 5004P-021!!

Good evening everyone.

This time, "that" special model that I adore has finally arrived in stock! I just can't resist introducing it, so I'd like to introduce it to you right away! Please read to the end!!

"Ref.5004P-021"
"Perpetual Calendar Split Second Chronograph" PT

The Ref. 5004P-021 was released in the mid-1990s, about 10 years after the release of the third-generation Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, the Ref. 3970, and featured a new split-seconds mechanism.

It was produced until around 2012, when its successor, the Reference 5204, was announced, but given its production period, the number of units in circulation was low, and it is becoming less and less common to see it on the market. It's been about a year since we last carried this model. Incidentally, our first 18KYG (yellow gold) model arrived in May 2025, and it was sold immediately after its release, demonstrating its popularity.

We have the only surviving "Ref. 5204" in stock, so I'd like to briefly show you this. The olive green sunburst dial with a black gradient that deepens towards the periphery shows different expressions depending on the angle of the light, making this a watch that truly symbolizes Patek Philippe's modern design philosophy. It's truly beautiful, isn't it?

The case diameter is approximately 37mm (actual measurement 36.7mm), which some may find a little small, but it feels perfectly sized on the wrist. The case is approximately 15mm thick due to the "split-second" mechanism, and the large crown with split button emphasizes the mechanical impression.

The design of the lugs is also not to be missed. The lugs flow beautifully from the case, creating a curved silhouette that visually streamlines the thick case. Depending on the angle, the three-dimensional shadows stand out, allowing you to enjoy a different look each time you look at it. The shape of the pushers is also distinctive, maintaining the presence you expect from a chronograph while achieving a beautiful overall balance. When worn on the wrist, the watch exudes a sense of power and luxury that exceeds its size, and the harmony from the case lines to the crown, lugs, and pushers is truly stunning. The shape is particularly exceptional when viewed from the side, and the "Ref. 5004" looks incredibly cool from this angle. This is truly a watch that can be described as the "pinnacle of sculptural beauty."

The Arabic numeral appliqué indexes, delicate minute scale, circle-adorned sub-dial design, and graceful leaf hands are all perfectly balanced, resulting in a highly refined overall design.
It's a film that has such charm that no matter how many times you look at it, you can't help but think it's cool.

The warranty card, written in French, confirms the watch's silver dial, Arabic numeral indices, and leather strap.

The location of the hallmark (engraving) varies depending on the year of production, but on this particular example, you can see that it is clearly engraved in four places on the back of the lugs. These details also show the meticulous finishing and high level of perfection of Patek Philippe at the time.

The movement is the prestigious "Cal. CHR 27-70 Q," based on the Nouvelle Lemania. Its sophisticated structure adds a "split-second" mechanism to the "perpetual calendar chronograph" mechanism, and not only is it technically perfect, but the three-dimensional movement design boasts a beauty that is almost like a work of art.

The warranty is dated December 2002. It comes with a complete set of accessories, including booklets, a pass case, a replacement closed case back, and adjustment pins. While there is some slight aging inside, the overall condition is excellent. It also comes with a dedicated "Ref. 5004" box to house the case back and adjustment pins, making it truly a complete watch.

I was wondering about the selling price, but it was sold quickly. It wasn't a price I could easily afford, but it seems that popular models sell off quickly.

Product details here

summary

What did you think?

This model is extremely rare on the market and is expected to become even more difficult to obtain in the future. It is not yet decided when it will be restocked, but considering its future value, it is a very dream model, so if you have been considering it, we hope you will grab it without hesitation when it next arrives.

We will continue to introduce as many attractive and recommended models as possible, so please look forward to the next issue!

See you next time!