WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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Benlee338, a collector with a strong preference for sports watches and AP, seeks to understand the horological significance of Patek Philippe chronographs, particularly the split-second models. His questions delve into the reverence for manual chronographs, the complexity and cost of split-seconds, and technical limitations, aiming to inform his dream acquisition of a Patek super-timepiece.
I started collecting watches about 4 years ago back in early 2013 where I bought my first serious watch is an Omega Planet Ocean ( before that was Tissots and Casio ). Then I caught the Rolex bug, bought and flipped a few and subsequently the AP bug. I am more into sports watch and buy watches based more on their external appeal more than anything which may explain why my collection is dominated by AP ( I have 6 of them out of 9 ). I do have a Patek which is my 5205R that I love. My latest haute horology timepiece acquisition is the Duometre Chronograph in WG that has a ( to me ) fascinating movement.
I now have this dream of collecting a Patek super-timepiece, something of much more prestige and substance, or put it this way, horological significance. I have in mind the Split Second 5370P or the Perpetual Calendar Rattrapante 5204P. Probably going to take few years of savings due to immense price barrier and not even sure if Patek will sell me one.
But here's the question, because I want to know what I am getting into
1) Why are manual chronographs much more well regarded and revered ( and cost more ) by the WIS community than automatic chronographs? Sure the movement is nicer to look at but are they much more difficult to make? And is it not the the former is just the latter without the rotor?
2) Why are split-second chronographs costing 2 to 3 times more than normal manual chronographs? Sure a split second is very cool but are they much more difficult to make? Or the pricing is more a reflection about it's exclusivity?
3) Is there a reason why most manual chronographs can only time until 30 mins? Tradition? Or a technical limitation?
Thanks in advance.
Rgds
Ben
Here's a picture of the 5204P I saw when I visited the Patek Salon Geneva back in 2014
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 Annual Calendar Ref. 5205
Patek Philippe Reference 5205
The Reference 5205 represents Patek Philippe's annual calendar offering within the complications category. This 40mm timepiece displays day, date, month, moon phase, and 24-hour indication, positioning it as a multi-function dress watch that requires adjustment only once per year at the end of February.
The 40mm case is available in 18k white gold, 18k rose gold, or platinum, featuring a smooth bezel and sapphire crystal with 30-meter water resistance. The automatic Caliber 324 S QA LU 24H provides 45 hours of power reserve. Each example comes fitted with a leather strap and deployant clasp.
In production from 2010 to present, the 5205 appeals to collectors seeking Patek Philippe's annual calendar complication in a contemporary case size. The availability across three precious metal options allows for different aesthetic preferences while maintaining the same movement and case proportions throughout the reference's production run.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 324 S QA LU 24H
- Case
- 18k White Gold, 18k Rose Gold, or Platinum
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- 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