The latest "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" comes in a rare platinum version | PATEK PHILIPPE

PATEK PHILIPPE

A Platinum Case Paired with a Gold Opaline Dial
A Vintage-Inspired Masterpiece

Since its debut in 1941, Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar chronographs have carried the brand's perfect aesthetic as its signature. In recent years, an 18K white gold model was introduced in 2011, followed by an 18K rose gold version in 2015. This year marks the arrival of a platinum model, the ultimate precious material. With the launch of this 2018 creation, the existing series beginning with the 5270 will be discontinued.

Text by TSUCHIDA Takashi (OPENERS)

The Subdued Charm of a Copper Dial and the Noble Elegance of a Platinum Case

If this were Bordeaux wine, it would be from 2010. In the world of Porsche, it would be the 1973 narrow-body. In this vein, the 2018 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is sure to be remembered for years to come.

In other words, a 'keeper'.

The vintage-inspired beauty of the platinum case combined with the gold opaline dial evokes Patek Philippe's very history. Unpretentious luxury. It is simply the best of the best.

The three subdials feature a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, small seconds at 9 o'clock, and a date indicator with moon phase at 6 o'clock. A display window at 7 o'clock shows day and night, and another at 5 o'clock indicates the leap year. Additionally, two small windows below 12 o'clock display the day of the week and the month.

Simply listing these functions sounds complex. Yet, Patek Philippe has masterfully balanced this wealth of information, even with the tachymeter scale, into a beautifully harmonious design. In its presence, the phrase 'less is more' feels utterly inadequate.

The decisive placement of Arabic numerals only on the upper half of the dial, leaving ample space for the subdials below, is a testament to bold judgment. This unwavering clarity, like a perfectly thrown fastball, strikes directly at the heart of the enthusiast. Furthermore, the subtle variations in the numeral fonts add a charming touch, making it utterly endearing.

And the voluptuous curves of the stepped case are simply captivating. The brand's relentless pursuit of showcasing the beauty of metal's curvature, combined with the freedom afforded by its high-end positioning and disregard for cost, results in this exquisite radiance.

The diamond at 6 o'clock on the case side signifies its platinum construction. The push-piece to its left is for adjusting the moon phase. In total, there are four such push-pieces located on various parts of the case.

5270P Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

Page02.And another: the new "Drop Link" bracelet

PATEK PHILIPPE

The 18K RG Model of the Same 5270 Series
A Bracelet Model Makes Its Debut

And another: the new "Drop Link" bracelet

The Perpetual Calendar Chronograph in an 18K rose gold case, first introduced in 2015, now features Patek Philippe's exclusive "Drop Link" bracelet. Composed of five links, this bracelet offers exceptional suppleness and comfort, and ingeniously integrates the perpetual calendar adjustment push-pieces within the end links.

The dial has transitioned from the previous silver opaline to an ebony black soleil finish. This creates a clear contrast with the rose gold hour markers and leaf-shaped hands, enhancing legibility.

With the introduction of this model, the previous 18K RG model with an alligator strap will be discontinued, consolidating the 18K RG version of the Perpetual Calendar Chronograph into this single bracelet model.

And indeed, the bracelet is also solid gold, lending a substantial weight to the entire timepiece. Beyond its heft, it undoubtedly adds a magnificent radiance to the wrist.