Description

Patek Philippe’s reference 5070 is a chronograph timepiece launched at Baselworld 1998, initially in yellow gold. White gold, pink gold and platinum versions followed in 2001, 2003 and 2008, respectively. This model marked a significant milestone in the company’s history as the first “simple” chronograph since the vintage ref. 1463, over 30 years apart.

Despite having been discontinued in 2009, the watch showcased here is a very rare re-edition in rose gold : reference 5070R-014 introduced during the brand’s 2015 Watch Art Grand Exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London. Only 5 pieces are believed to have been made, cementing the status of this watch as a highly-collectible item. During that exhibition, other ultra-limited 5070s were released such as the 5070P-013 – which we previously posted.

For the occasion, the regular production silvered dial was replaced with a striking black dial contrasting beautifully with the pink gold applied Arabic numerals and leaf-shaped hands. The chronograph’s dial is completed with a 30-minute register at 3 o’clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock, as well as a minute track and a tachymeter. Other interesting details include the Calatrava cross on the crown.

Inside the 42mm 18k pink gold case is the manually wound Caliber CH 27-70 based on the Lemania 2310 movement, completely reworked and finished by Patek Philippe, and which can be admired through the sapphire crystal case-back along with the Geneva Seal. This movement would eventually be replaced by Patek’s own manufacture chronograph movement, the Caliber CH 29-535 PS introduced with ref. 5170 in 2009. As such, this 5070 re-edition as well as other London editions were novelties carrying new-old-stock movements and cases, increasing their rarity value as this was an unusual occurrence. This also explains why the Patek Philippe Seal (introduced in 2009) is absent on those movements.

A black alligator-leather strap with a 18k pink gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp completes this elegant collector’s watch.

Patek Philippe – Bio

Patek Philippe & Co. was founded in 1839, located in Geneva and the Vallée de Joux. It designs and manufactures timepieces and movements, including some of the most complicated mechanical watches. It is considered by many experts and aficionados to be one of the most prestigious watch manufacturers.
In 1868, Patek Philippe made their first wristwatch, which was sold on November 13, 1876 to the Hungarian Countess.
It is the last independent, family-owned Genevan watch manufacture with uninterrupted operating history spanning nearly 180 years.