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Patek Philippe 5905: Annual Calendar Flyback Chronograph
Updated 2/17/2026
Annual Calendar Meets Flyback Chronograph
The Patek Philippe 5905 combines two practical complications: an annual calendar (which only needs correction once per year, on March 1) and a flyback chronograph (which can be reset and restarted with a single push, without stopping first). This makes it one of Patek's most usable complicated watches. The annual calendar means you set the date once in March and forget about it until the following March. The flyback chronograph is genuinely useful for timing back-to-back events. Housed in a 42mm case — the largest in Patek's current complications lineup — it wears like a modern luxury sports chronograph rather than a traditional dress watch.
Movement and Dial Layout
The 5905 uses the caliber CH 28-520 QA 24H, an automatic movement with a column wheel chronograph mechanism and annual calendar module. It features day, date, and month displays in separate sub-registers, plus a 24-hour indicator at 6 o'clock. The flyback function is controlled by the lower pusher at 4 o'clock. Power reserve is approximately 50 hours. The guilloche center dial on most variants is a highlight — the pattern is engine-turned on the actual dial, not printed, and catches light beautifully. The applied gold hour markers and Dauphine hands give it a dressier character than the case size might suggest.
Current Pricing
The 5905 retails for approximately CHF 90,000-CHF 100,000 depending on the variant. On the secondary market, it trades between $70,000 and $110,000. The 5905R in rose gold with a black dial is the most commonly available. The 5905/1A in steel (a rarer configuration) carries a significant premium, as collectors prize Patek steel sport watches. For the complications offered — annual calendar plus flyback chronograph, with an in-house movement — the 5905 represents strong value within Patek's lineup. Compare it to the 5270 (perpetual calendar chronograph at $150,000+) and the 5905 looks like a bargain.
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Who It Is For
The 5905 suits the collector who wants genuine Patek complications in a watch that can be worn daily. The 42mm case is large enough to have presence without being unwieldy. The automatic movement means no manual winding ritual. The annual calendar is set-and-forget for 11 months of the year. If you are buying your first complicated Patek and want something that works as a daily wearer rather than a safe-queen, the 5905 is arguably the best choice in the current catalog. It also makes an excellent second Patek for collectors who already own a Nautilus or Calatrava and want to step into complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Patek Philippe 5905 price?
Retail is approximately CHF 90,000-100,000. Secondary market prices range from $70,000 to $110,000 depending on the variant and condition. The steel version (5905/1A) commands the highest premiums.
What is the difference between annual and perpetual calendar?
An annual calendar requires one manual correction per year (at the end of February). A perpetual calendar automatically accounts for month lengths and leap years, requiring no correction until 2100. Annual calendars are simpler, thinner, and significantly less expensive.
Is the 5905 a good everyday Patek?
Yes. The 42mm case is substantial enough for daily wear, the automatic movement is convenient, and the annual calendar is genuinely practical. Water resistance is 30 meters, which handles handwashing and light rain but not swimming.