Patek Philippe Celestial Ref. 6104R-001

For over a century, Patek Philippe has held an undisputed reputation as a master of horological complications. To usher in the new millennium, the manufacture set a new benchmark with the unveiling of the Star Calibre 2000 — a grand complication pocket watch showcasing a rotating celestial chart, lunar phases and orbit, as well as the meridian passage of Sirius and the Moon. Just two years later, these poetic astronomical indications found their way into a wristwatch format with the introduction of the reference 5102, marking the debut of one of the brand’s most enchanting and technically sophisticated wristwatches. At the heart of the reference lies its mesmerizing dial, layered with depth. A radiant metallic black hue shimmers across its surface, shifting character with the light, while an array of finely detailed golden stars dances across the celestial map. Comprising three superimposed discs, the display beautifully represents the night sky as seen from Geneva. The first disc in metallic black creates the “sky”, the second disc indicates the phases and orbit of the moon, and the third disc depicts the stars and Sirius. While not a complication born of utility, its slow, deliberate movement is a tribute to the contemplative beauty of astronomical timekeeping, crafted more for wonder than function. The display is completed by a transparent disc printed with cardinal points, helping orient the wearer to the heavens above.

In 2012, Patek Philippe evolved the design with the reference 6102, increasing the case size and adding a date indication via a central hand tipped with a red crescent. That same year, the maison introduced the reference 6104G, adorned with a bezel and clasp set with baguette-cut diamonds. Soon after, a rose gold version, the 6104R, followed with a deep black dial, offering an even more luxurious take on the celestial complication.

The present 6104R-001 is an exceptional and well-preserved example of this ultra-refined reference, accompanied by its complete suite of accessories. Now that the 6104G has been discontinued, the 6104R remains the sole diamond-set version of the model in Patek Philippe’s current collection—a truly poetic marriage of astronomy and artistry. Should you be in good enough standing at Patek Philippe today to be offered this Grand Complication, the retail price would be $506,424.