This specific type of timepiece, produced by the prestigious Swiss watch manufacturer, displays the day, date, month, and year, automatically adjusting for the varying lengths of months, including leap years. A defining feature is its ability to accurately track the calendar without manual correction, often for centuries into the future. For example, a properly set timepiece of this kind will correctly display February 29th in a leap year, and transition seamlessly to March 1st the following day.
Complications of this type are highly valued in horology for their mechanical complexity and inherent practicality. They represent a significant achievement in watchmaking, requiring intricate engineering and precise craftsmanship. Historically, these sophisticated mechanisms have been a symbol of status and a testament to the wearer’s appreciation for fine mechanical art. The convenience of a timepiece that requires minimal adjustment, combined with its technical brilliance, makes it a desirable acquisition for collectors and enthusiasts.