A LIMITED EDITION MEN'S PATEK PHILIPPE PLATINUM AND 18K ROSE GOLD AUTOMATIC WRISTWATCH.
GRAND COMPLICATION CELESTIAL.

Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Grand Complication Celestial
Case reference: 5102PR
Year: Circa 2011
Movement: Complication, automatic, Cal. 240/165, No. 550XXXX
Dial: Blue with a constellation representation, moon-phase, white leaf hands, silvered Roman numerals
Material: Platinum and 18k rose gold
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather, 18k rose gold buckle
Signed: Dial, movement, case, strap, buckle
Dimension: 43mm

A Masterpiece of Horological Innovation: Patek Philippe Celestial Ref. 5102

Launched in 2002, the Patek Philippe Celestial Ref. 5102 stands as one of the most significant horological innovations in modern watchmaking. For the first time, a breathtaking rendition of the Northern Hemisphere’s celestial chart was dynamically brought to the wrist. This astronomical complication captures the beauty and movement of the stars with unprecedented precision.

The celestial chart on the dial rotates counterclockwise, displaying the progression of stars relative to the meridian passage of Sirius, one of the brightest stars in the night sky. At the same time, the watch showcases both the meridian passage and the phases of the moon, all working in perfect harmony. Patek Philippe undertook immense research, calculating over 25 trillion ratio combinations to ensure the utmost accuracy for all the astronomical displays of the Ref. 5102. This remarkable achievement reflects the extraordinary challenges faced by Patek Philippe’s master watchmakers in producing such a complex and precise timepiece.

At the heart of the Ref. 5102 lies the sophisticated automatic Calibre 240 LU CL movement, composed of 301 individual parts, each meticulously hand-finished by Patek Philippe’s expert craftsmen. This highly complicated movement powers the various celestial displays, with three corundum sapphire crystal discs simulating the orbits of the moon and the passage of the stars. The use of these sapphire discs creates a stunning sense of depth on the dial, enhancing the overall visual impact of the watch.

For this groundbreaking invention, Patek Philippe was awarded a Swiss Patent (CH 688 171 B5) for the base calibre, underscoring the technical prowess and ingenuity behind the Ref. 5102.

The final and most striking iteration of the Celestial, the Ref. 5102PR, was introduced at Baselworld 2009 in a combination of platinum and 18k rose gold, following earlier versions in white and yellow gold. This final configuration presented a perfect balance of color and texture, enhancing the watch’s luxurious appeal. The Ref. 5102PR was discontinued in 2012, succeeded by the Ref. 6102, which introduced a redesigned case and an additional date complication integrated into the celestial chapter ring.

As one of the last models of its kind, the Ref. 5102PR is celebrated not only for its technical brilliance but also for its aesthetic sophistication. Collectors and enthusiasts alike consider this timepiece a rare and important part of Patek Philippe’s storied legacy of innovation.