Patek Philippe 5950A-001 Split-Seconds Chronograph Guide
Reference Guide

Patek Philippe 5950A-001 Split-Seconds Chronograph Guide

By lavrentivs · May 25, 2022 · 36 replies
lavrentivs
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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Lavrentivs's detailed exploration of the Patek Philippe Ref. 5950A-001 offers a rare glimpse into a highly coveted and technically significant timepiece. His post not only showcases the watch's aesthetic brilliance but also delves into the horological marvel of its ultra-thin split-seconds monopusher chronograph movement. This article synthesizes community insights, highlighting why this stainless steel Patek Philippe remains a benchmark for collectors and enthusiasts alike.





Introduced in 2010, the CHR 27-525 PS movement in this reference is a marvel of engineering being only 5.25 mm in height. This is all the more impressive considering it incorporates spilt seconds functionality. On top of this, it is a monopusher design with the pusher coaxial with the crown. Patek Philippe’s manual winding chronographs have always been special but this one dials it up to an eleven and to my mind, is one of the most beautiful chronographs made from any manufacturer.

The design incorporates lovely black oxidised feuille hands and applied Breguet numerals in 18k gold, raised glossy printing rendered in black lacquer, chronograph seconds divisions at 1/6 of a second to match the 3Hz beat rate of the movement, Art Deco era typography and scroll detailing at the vertices which incidentally is duplicated on the movements ring frame. Best of all, in my view, is that it has a 60-minute totaliser, not the usual 30-minute one on most chronographs. However, while there is precedent for chronograph functions to be distinguished with different coloured hands, this was not done and you have to remember that the constant seconds is on the left and the totaliser is on the right. Additionally, the no cutting of numerals and markers and the minimal text are design choices that immediately earn from me a kudos.

Finally, this watch is in stainless steel, a rarity for Patek Philippe high complications and a treat for collectors. I dare say this is a timeless reference that will be admired in any era.



The dial side.



Behold the CHR 27-525 PS.



A closeup of the upper right quadrant of the dial.



A closeup of the lower half of the dial. This message has been edited by FabR on 2022-05-25 23:35:47

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

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
MD
mdg
May 25, 2022

...stainless steel, the fantastic case shape and slimness, the very unusual (and difficult to manufacture) complication. Great pix... Maybe one of our esteemed members will chime in with photos of his : )

LM
lm6
May 25, 2022

Thank's for interesting post with very nice photos.

MZ
MZHammer
May 25, 2022

But I, for the life of me, cannot understand why. I find it one of Patek's most appealing offerings and truly a grail!

SI
sie
May 25, 2022

hope they will bring back that movement in the regular catalogue. great architecture and top-notch finishing. it's a 1/5th scale dial not matching with its 3hz, which i do find a bit odd. even their 4hz chronos are mostly 1/5th of a second, with very few exceptions. does anyone know why they still do so?

CH
Chicolini
May 25, 2022

with this watch that gives rise to the mixed responses? Im curious. Thank you.

CH
ChristianDK
May 25, 2022

I think your description describe my feelings so closely that I’m not going to add or discuss any of what you said. Thank you immensely for these close ups. I have revisited this post several times tonight to look at the pictures. If I could pick only one but any of the modern PP, this would probably be my choice. You must be in 7th heaven.

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