Patek PhilippeGrand Complications Split Seconds Chronograph

Introduced in 2015 the Patek Philippe 5370P-001 is the first pure split-seconds chronograph made with a wholly in-house movement. This was a watch designed to appeal to the brand’s traditionalists, combining a modern movement design with traditional finishing techniques along with dial and case detailing taken from the 1930s and ‘40s. The deep black of the dial is the result of ‘grand feu’ enamel rather than lacquer, a technique that is far harder to execute in black than the more commonly seen white. The oven-fired glass powder coats a disc of 18ct gold before a 3hr polishing process produces the lustrous finish that you see. The short ‘Email’ printed below the 6 is the only indication of the labour involved to create even the dial blank. Numerals are applied in white gold, in the ‘Breguet’ style beloved of Patek enthusiasts and less commonly found on complicated models. Hands are, in fact, rhodium-plated steel rather than white gold. The rigidity of the steel is more suited the withstand the whip effect of resetting the chronograph. For extra contrast, luminous material is set into the hour and minute hands.

The case is traditional in style but a contemporary 41mm in diameter. To compensate for this, the strap lugs are set wider than usual to preserve the proportions of the 1930s chronographs. Chronograph pushers are rounded rectangles with brushed sides to match the case middle and polished tops to match the lugs and bezel. The crown is in oversized ‘turbine’ form with the rattrapante button in the centre. The lugs form an elegant arch terminating in a platinum cabochon that hints at a screw-bar attachment when, in fact, spring bars are used.

The 5370P is the first wristwatch to use the CHR 29-535 PS calibre. This is the same movement found in the highly regarded 5170 but with the addition of a split-seconds module. This additional mechanism adds depth to the movement meaning there is more to delight the eye of the owner through the large sapphire display back. There are a number of features that indicate the modern development work that has gone into this movement, notably the shape of the bridge for the split-seconds and the swan neck isolator spring. The finishing of the movement is done to extremely high standards, even for Patek Philippe, with bevelled and polished edges everywhere you look. With the chronograph disengaged, the movement delivers a commendable 65hrs maximum power reserve.

This watch is offered in excellent condition, with only light marks to the case, bezel, and lugs. The strap is bent from being fastened on the case cushion but appears unworn. The clasp has light marks and scratches. The watch is offered with its box, certificate of origin, leather document wallet and all booklets. It also has the original platinum case back that is an alternative to the sapphire back presently fitted.

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