
Iceman's initial encounter with the Patek Philippe Ref. 5204P Perpetual Calendar Split-Seconds Chronograph sparked a lively debate among collectors. His post captures the immediate, visceral reaction to experiencing a watch many consider a future icon, offering a valuable firsthand perspective on its design and on-wrist presence. This article delves into why the 5204P captivated him and how the community weighed its merits against other Patek Philippe chronographs.





The Patek Philippe reference 5070, part of the Complications collection, marked a significant return for the brand to large-format chronographs. Introduced in 1998, it was the first non-perpetual calendar chronograph produced by Patek Philippe since the reference 1463, which ceased production in the early 1960s. Its design drew inspiration from a unique Patek Philippe aviator's watch from the 1940s, characterized by its prominent case and dial layout, yet reinterpreted for a contemporary audience. This reference established a new aesthetic direction for the brand's chronographs, moving towards more substantial case dimensions.
The watch features a 42mm case, initially offered in 18k yellow gold, housing the manual-winding Caliber CH 27-70. This movement, based on a Nouvelle Lémania ébauche, was extensively finished and modified by Patek Philippe, meeting the brand's stringent quality standards. It provides a power reserve of approximately 55 hours. The dial, in this specific configuration, is black, protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters. The fixed bezel frames the dial, and the watch is typically fitted with a leather strap.
Reference 5070 appeals to collectors interested in modern Patek Philippe chronographs that combine traditional movement architecture with a more contemporary case size. Its limited production run and the subsequent introduction of variants in other precious metals contribute to its collectibility. The reference represents a distinct period in Patek Philippe's chronograph history, bridging vintage inspirations with a new era of larger watch designs.
It is on my list but probably not in the short term. Was this one for sale? An amazing piece!
You should try it. Beware thou, it might be bad for you . :-)) Cheers Iceman
...that was going to be allocated to me back in October and passed. I like the watch but something told me no and it wasn't the price which i was getting a great deal. I kick myself from time to time on passing but my gut still tells me it was the right move. I have had a few AD tell me that they are not moving and people are not asking for them like they did the 5004. Also, I love the original dial. This dial not as much but not a deal killer.
There is a significant wait list here. Not a single pc is not spoken for. Strange as different part of the world has different demands. I actually like this dial with the improved grey hands ( btw, the reason they change it is because patek has oxidation issue with the black hands) it has a more classic look to it now. Which i much prefer. 5004, sorry mate. Never will put a hamburger on my wrist. And with so many problem with the movement its a definate pass. I can count 30 pcs on sale in any me
Thanks for this Iceman. I haven't started discussing this one with my AD in Asia as I have been focusing on other priorities but I hope my time will come!
I didnt sleep well the nite after seeing this beast. Totally transfixed to it Best Iceman
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