Long standing relationships should be cherished and there is no better way to that than to properly mark a special occasion.

In the world of high-end watches, a limited edition release is a common way to mark such an occasion. Usually, we’re not really a fan of such limited editions as they tend to be repetitive and veer into the easy money-making territory. There are exceptions though and Patek Philippe’s retailer-exclusive limited editions are the prime example.

So is the case for this Wempe exclusive. To celebrate the 125th anniversary of the German jewelry and watch house Wempe in 2003, Patek released the limited edition ref. 5125 in a run of just 425 watches, with 125 pieces each in yellow, rose and white gold, and 100 pieces in platinum.

The ref. 5125 finds inspiration in Patek’s iconic mid-century perpetual calendar watches, like the ref. 2497 and ref. 3448. The 5125, however, replaced this classic complication with its younger brother, the annual calendar, which was invented by Patek just a few years prior and only requires a manual adjustment once a year at the end of the month of February.

This 5125 is a perfect mix of vintage charm and modern convenience. The 18K yellow gold case features an elegant polished bezel and an eminently wearable 36 mm size, while the addition of sleek crown guards and a sturdy sapphire crystal introduces a sleek touch to an otherwise classic design. Moreover, the watch runs on Patek Philippe’s caliber 315 S QA LU 35 R self-winding movement.

The opaline dial harkens back to the desirable mid-century Patek dress watches with the inclusion of stately dauphine hands, refined baton markers, and a lovely dot minute/second scale. The complications are introduced on the dial in a balanced way with Patek’s iconic ‘in-line’ placement of the day and month indicators below the 12 o’clock position and a date indicator at the 6 o’clock position. Right above the date aperture sits a classic moonphase window, containing a discreet WEMPE signature, that is enhanced by a handy 24-hour indicator.

This exquisite limited edition 5152J is in excellent condition and comes on a chocolate brown alligator leather strap with an 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp. The watch comes as a full set with the original box and papers.