Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5970G: A Collector's Perspective

amanico · 2020-01-28T14:12:23Z

Explore the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5970G through collector insights. Discover its unique appeal, rare variants, and comparisons to other iconic references.

amanico

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

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Nicolas (amanico) shares his appreciation for the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5970G, highlighting its design and movement as superior to contemporary models. His post invites a deeper look into why this reference holds such a significant place in the hearts of many collectors. This article synthesizes community insights, offering diverse perspectives on the 5970's enduring appeal and its place within Patek Philippe's storied lineage of complicated watches.

Here is a picture from Christies:

I reworked the picture to get this close up.

The 5970 is for me one of the best perpetual calendar ever made by Patek. Even nicer for me than the elusive and legendary 5004 ( adding a Rattrapante ), if we consider the proportions.

Now, if I had to choose, I would love to get the salmon dial, or this black beauty ( 5970P ).

The case and the dial, without forgetting the Lemania movement, are more my taste than the current one.

Best,

Nicolas

About the IWC Ref. 5004

The Patek Philippe reference 5004 is a highly regarded grand complication, combining a split-seconds chronograph with a perpetual calendar. This reference was a significant offering in Patek Philippe's catalog, representing a sophisticated blend of technical mastery and traditional watchmaking. It was produced in limited numbers, making it a sought-after piece among collectors of complex horology.

The watch features a 36mm platinum case with a thickness of 15mm, housing the manual-winding caliber CHR 27-70 Q. This movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours and is protected by a sapphire crystal. The dial is presented in silver opaline, offering clear legibility for its numerous indications. The case is water-resistant to 30 meters.

As a split-seconds perpetual calendar, the reference 5004 appeals to collectors who value both intricate mechanical solutions and classical design. Its production run from 1996 to 2012 saw various dial and case material iterations, though platinum was a prominent offering. The integration of two major complications in a relatively compact case underscores its appeal within the realm of high-end watch collecting.

Specifications

Caliber: CHR 27-70 Q

Case: platinum

Diameter: 36mm

Dial: silver opaline

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The salmon dial Patek Philippe 5970P with sandblasted Breguet numerals and hands is a unique variant, with the 5970G salmon dial being even rarer, with fewer than five known examples. This specific dark sandblasted feature likely inspired the salmon dial of the later 5270P.
The 5970 is considered by some collectors to be the ultimate modern Patek Philippe, with examples like the 5970J, 5970R, and 5970P being highly coveted.
Despite its aesthetic appeal, some collectors find the 5970 lacks the emotional or intellectual depth of other references like the 5004, which is perceived to have more 'soul' and charm, especially when experienced in person.
The Patek Philippe 5004, while technically brilliant, is noted for its thickness. However, collectors accustomed to vintage references like the 1518 might find its proportions acceptable.
The 5970G, despite its 40mm size, is often described as wearing smaller than its dimensions suggest. Some collectors prefer the G dial over the P, finding the latter less appealing.
A potential flaw was observed in a 5970's month window, where the 'R' in 'APR' was partially visible, suggesting a minor planning oversight for a timepiece of this caliber.

The Discussion

Jan 28, 2020

Love it each time but part it each time too.... It is a very beautiful and lustful watch but leaves me cold intellectually or emotionally. I don't know why. I still lust for it but I know I will have the same feeling all over again after having the watch for a few months. 5004... on the other hand is one piece that needs to be tried in metal. It has plenty of souls and charm. I am more star struck by one who wears a plain 5004 than one who wears a 5970, even if it is a salmon dial.

mrds

Jan 28, 2020

I recently had the chance to see its younger brother in the metal. Top elegant piece, too, but I agree the 5970 is still a small step ahead. Best, Daniel

yming

Jan 28, 2020

I feel the 5970g is a gorgeous watch especially the salmon Personally I prefer the g to the p - coz the p has very subtly shrunken date numbers

mdg

Jan 28, 2020

and it does seem a bit inappropriate for such a luxury timepiece. Also, it appears that the 'R' in APR is showing in the upper right side of the month window? If so, that is poor planning. I don't expect absolute perfection in all things, but at this price, somebody should have caught this error in the prototype stage...

Quan

Jan 28, 2020

and also 5004 is another charm to wish for

Mikesr

Jan 28, 2020

To all. Be careful if you buy a winder for manual watches. My AD talked me into buying one, and my 5270 was overwound. Now needs service. I’m mad as hell. Hopefully he will cover the service bill. Escapement locked.

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Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5970G: A Collector's Perspective

About the IWC Ref. 5004

Specifications

About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 5970

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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