In a collection filled with intricate mechanics and rich surfaces, the Patek Philippe Ref. 6159G-001 introduces a different kind of expression — one centred on transparency, restraint, and architectural detail. This white gold perpetual calendar, unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025, balances tradition with a distinctly modern point of view.

Patek Philippe’s perpetual calendar with retrograde date is a longstanding reference point within the collection. The 6159G-001 builds on that heritage, but updates its presentation in meaningful ways. A new sapphire crystal dial with grey metallisation brings the internal workings of the calendar mechanism into partial view, allowing glimpses of the date and moonphase disks beneath the surface. Rather than hiding complexity, this approach brings it forward — subtly, and with control.

The case, in white gold, measures 39.5mm and features a bezel and caseback engraved with a hobnail pattern. Long associated with the brand’s Calatrava lineage, this decorative motif brings texture and contrast to the polished caseband. It’s compact and wearable, but detailed enough to reward attention. Water resistance is rated at 30 metres, and the overall case thickness remains just under 12mm.

Time is displayed via faceted dauphine hands and baton-style hour markers, both coated in white luminescent material for low-light legibility. The calendar indications are clearly arranged: a retrograde date hand arcs from 8 to 4 o’clock, jumping back to 1 at the end of each month. The apertures for day, month, leap year and moon phase are positioned in a cross-shaped layout, with fine grey outlines enhancing visibility. Despite the number of displays, the dial remains open and symmetrical.

Inside, the self-winding calibre 26-330 S QR powers the display. The retrograde mechanism has been engineered to disconnect the date hand during its return sweep, preventing any rebound or misalignment. Meanwhile, the moonphase complication is accurate to within a single day every 122 years. The movement features a central gold rotor and a frequency of 4 Hz, with a power reserve of up to 45 hours.

The watch is paired with a black composite strap featuring a fabric-like texture and contrasting cream stitching. It’s fitted with the brand’s new white gold triple-blade fold-over clasp, which offers a more secure and seamless wearing experience. The overall look is more contemporary than previous executions — still refined, but with a subtle sportiness in the material choices.

The 6159G-001 approaches complexity with restraint. Its perpetual calendar is presented with clarity and balance, avoiding visual clutter despite the number of indicators on display. The case architecture plays with depth—stepped lugs, a concave bezel, and layered dial elements work together to create dimension without distraction. Subtle tonal contrasts between the dial, markers, and case finish give the watch a quiet richness that unfolds the longer you spend with it. This isn’t just a watch built around complication; it’s one designed to be lived with, studied, and appreciated from every angle.

Discover Patek Philippe at The Hour Glass.