In the realm of modern horology, the perpetual calendar stands out for its ability to automatically adjust the date for months with fewer than 31 days, including leap years. Barring century years that are not leap years (like 2100, 2200, and 2300), these watches require minimal manual intervention until 2400. Typically, perpetual calendars come paired with additional complications, such as moon phases. From the WatchTime archives, here are six standout perpetual calendar watches that are (almost) timeless.
Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5940
Patek Philippe’s cushion-shaped Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5940 is now available in a rose-gold case. It runs on the ultra-thin Caliber 240 Q with a micro-rotor. Measuring 37 mm by 44.6 mm, the Ref. 5940R-001 is priced at $87,320.
Hermès Slim d’Hermès Quantième Perpétuel
In January 2017, Hermès introduced a new iteration of the Slim d’Hermès Quantième Perpétuel featuring a platinum case and blue dial. This watch is driven by the in-house Caliber H1950, an ultra-thin mechanical movement with a micro-rotor. It is available for $39,900.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar
Unveiled during SIHH 2017, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar sports a black ceramic case and bracelet. The 41-mm case houses the self-winding Caliber 5134. This watch is priced at $93,900. For more details on the watch and its movement, click here.
Frederique Constant Manufacture Perpetual Calendar
Introduced in 2016, the Frederique Constant Manufacture Perpetual Calendar features a fully in-house-developed perpetual calendar. Priced under $10,000, it is available in either a stainless-steel or rose-gold-plated case, costing $8,795 and $8,995 respectively. A detailed review of the watch can be found here.
A. Lange & Söhne Tourbograph Perpetual “Pour Le Mérite”
The hand-wound Tourbograph Perpetual “Pour le Mérite” in platinum by A. Lange & Söhne is the brand’s most intricate watch with the “Pour le Mérite” distinction. Its in-house movement combines five grand complications: a perpetual calendar, chronograph, rattrapante function, fusée-and-chain transmission, and tourbillon. Limited to 50 pieces, this 43-mm watch is priced at 480,000 euros. More about it can be read here.
Glashütte Original Senator Excellence Perpetual Calendar
Based on the brand’s in-house automatic Caliber 36, the Glashütte Original Senator Excellence Perpetual Calendar offers a 100-hour power reserve. This 42-mm watch is available for $22,000 in steel and $35,100 in rose gold. A full report on the watch from Baselworld 2017 can be found here.
