Samwan's enthusiastic post celebrates the acquisition of the Patek Philippe Ref. 5370P-001, a watch he describes as 'the perfect watch.' Introduced at Basel World 2015, this reference is lauded as Patek's first pure split-seconds chronograph with an in-house movement, featuring a black grand feu enamel dial and a platinum case. Samwan shares his initial impressions and highlights the magnificent CHR-535PS movement.
I reported last week about a watch gathering in Hong Kong - it was the occasion I have been longing for - I have waited (impatiently) for 18 months and my overseas dealer finally decided to hand-deliver the watch to me.
What a watch! The reference 5370P-001 was introduced in Basel World 2015 and was quickly labelled as the
"first pure split seconds chronograph with in-house movement made by Patek" Much has been written about the model but to let some steam out of my excitement, I am obliged to make a short post here
Here are some frontal views (hastily taken smart phone shots):
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A notable feature is that the dial is made of black grand feu enamel (more difficult to make than white enamel) - note the attestation by the French word "EMAIL" (standing for enamel) beneath 6 o'clock. The overall aesthetic design is rather pleasing - critics find the watch very traditional in appearance , yet well-proportioned, functional and well executed. The feuille, or leaf-shaped hands are made of solid white gold with superluminova coating. The chrono hands, on the hand (if you will excuse the pun), are crafted out of "rhodiumed steel", and the lighter metal facilitates quick and precise movement of the hand around the dial.The applied Breguet numerals are made in white gold, as commonly found in limited editions introduced by the brand. The platinum case (41 mm) is unusually large for Patek timepieces, and adopts recessed flanks with brushed and mirror like finishes.
The most attractive part of the watch is the magnificent CHR-535PS movement. (CHR stands for chronographe rattrapante and PS for petit seconde). It is the same base movement shared by the more humble reference 5170 introduced in 2012 and has around 60 hours of power reserve.
The movement features an unusual 2 column-wheel mechanisms.
The 5370P is often compared against the reference 5204 (perpetual calendar split seconds chronograph) and the 5959 or 5950. I will leave it to your judgment as to which reference sings to you more....
Regards,
Sam
About the Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5170
The Chronograph reference 5170, introduced in 2010, marked a significant development for Patek Philippe as it was the first serially produced chronograph to feature a fully in-house manufactured movement. This reference succeeded the reference 5070, transitioning from a Lemania-based caliber to a proprietary design, underscoring the brand's commitment to integrated manufacturing for its complications. It represents a modern interpretation of a classic chronograph layout within the Patek Philippe catalog.
The reference 5170 features a case measuring 39.4 mm in diameter and 10.9 mm in thickness, available in 18k white, rose, or yellow gold. It is equipped with the manual-winding caliber CH 29-535 PS, which offers a power reserve of 65 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 30 meters. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back, showcasing its intricate finishing.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a contemporary Patek Philippe chronograph with an in-house movement. Early variants, such as the yellow gold reference 5170J-001, featured a pulsometer scale, which was later replaced by a minute track on subsequent iterations. The various metal options and dial configurations provide distinct aesthetic choices for collectors, reflecting different periods of its production run.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CH 29-535 PS
- Case
- 18k White Gold, Rose Gold, or Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 39.4 mm
- Dial
- Silver, Black, or Opaline
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Split-Seconds Chronograph Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5204
Patek Philippe Reference 5204 Split-Seconds Chronograph Perpetual Calendar
The Reference 5204 combines split-seconds chronograph functionality with perpetual calendar complications in a 40mm case format. This reference represents Patek Philippe's approach to integrating dual chronograph timing capabilities with complete calendar functions, positioning it as a grand complication within the manufacture's lineup.
The 40mm case is available in 18k white gold or rose gold with polished bezel treatment and sapphire crystal. The manual-winding Caliber R CH 27 PS QI provides 48 hours of power reserve. Dial options include silvery-gray or silvery-opaline finishes, paired with alligator leather straps. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters.
Produced from 2012 to 2019, the 5204 appeals to collectors seeking complications beyond standard chronographs or simple perpetual calendars. The split-seconds function adds timing versatility while maintaining the traditional manual-winding operation characteristic of high-end chronograph manufacture. The reference serves collectors prioritizing mechanical complexity and dual precious metal case options.
Specifications
- Caliber
- R CH 27 PS QI
- Case
- 18k White Gold or Rose Gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Silvery-gray or Silvery-opaline
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Split-Seconds Chronograph Ref. 5370
The Patek Philippe Reference 5370 is a split-seconds chronograph, a complication highly regarded in horology. It stands out in the Patek Philippe collection for its focus on a technically demanding chronograph mechanism without additional complications, presented in a classic and refined aesthetic. This reference appeals to collectors who prioritize mechanical complexity and traditional watchmaking.
The watch features a 41 mm case, available in either 18k white gold or 18k rose gold, with a polished bezel. It is equipped with the manual-winding caliber CHR 29-535 PS, a movement known for its innovative split-seconds mechanism and column-wheel control. The power reserve is approximately 65 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial and offers a view of the movement through the case back. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters.
This reference is notable for its enamel dial, offered in black or white, which provides a depth and finish characteristic of high-end watchmaking. The 5370 appeals to collectors seeking a pure expression of a grand complication chronograph from Patek Philippe, valuing its technical execution and understated design. It represents a significant offering within the brand's complicated watch lineup.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CHR 29-535 PS
- Case
- 18k White Gold or 18k Rose Gold
- Diameter
- 41 mm
- Dial
- White or Black
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5950
The Patek Philippe Reference 5950 is a monopusher split-seconds chronograph, a highly complex complication that showcases Patek Philippe's traditional watchmaking expertise. This reference is notable for its cushion-shaped case, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century Patek Philippe chronographs, and its integration of a sophisticated manual-winding movement. It represents a contemporary interpretation of historical designs, appealing to collectors who value both technical prowess and vintage aesthetics. The 5950 stands out in the Patek Philippe collection for its unique combination of a rare complication and a distinctive case form.
The watch features a 37mm cushion-shaped case, crafted from platinum, providing a substantial feel on the wrist. It houses the manual-winding caliber CHR 27-525 PS, a movement known for its slim profile and intricate construction, including a column-wheel mechanism. This caliber offers a power reserve of approximately 48 to 52 hours. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, allowing for a clear view of the intricate details. The caseback is also sapphire, revealing the meticulously finished movement.
For collectors, the Reference 5950 holds significance due to its limited production and the complexity of its monopusher split-seconds chronograph function. It appeals to those seeking a high-complication timepiece with a strong historical design lineage. The platinum case and the specific movement further enhance its desirability, positioning it as a notable piece within Patek Philippe's grand complications. Its design echoes earlier Patek Philippe chronographs, making it a bridge between historical and contemporary horology.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CHR 27-525 PS
- Case
- Platinum
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Grand Complications Ref. 5959
The Patek Philippe Grand Complications reference 5959 is a split-seconds monopusher chronograph, a highly refined complication within the brand's extensive catalog. It stands out for its focus on a singular, technically demanding chronograph function, presented in a compact and classic form factor. This reference represents a commitment to traditional haute horlogerie, emphasizing mechanical complexity and artisanal finishing over additional grand complications.
This timepiece features a platinum case, measuring 33 mm in diameter, which contributes to its understated presence on the wrist. It houses the manually wound caliber CHR 27-525 PS, a movement celebrated for its thinness and intricate construction, including a column wheel and horizontal clutch. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, allowing for a clear view of the dial and, through the exhibition case back, the meticulously finished movement.
For collectors, the 5959 appeals to those who appreciate the purity of a high-end chronograph without additional functions. Its limited production and the technical sophistication of its split-seconds monopusher mechanism make it a significant piece for enthusiasts of Patek Philippe's most complex offerings. The reference is known for its classic aesthetic, often paired with a black or white enamel dial, reinforcing its traditional appeal.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CHR 27-525 PS
- Case
- Platinum
- Diameter
- 33 mm
- Dial
- Black or White enamel
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
