REF. 5370P-001, MOVEMENT NO. 5'252'810, CASE NO. 6'147'470, CIRCA 2016

Considered one of the finest complicated watches to be produced by Patek Philippe in recent years and although not a limited edition as such, it is highly limited in production. Reference 5370P already has a very special place in the hearts of Patek Philippe enthusiasts because it was the first ‘split-chronograph only’ wristwatch to be made by the company since the legendary vintage reference 1436 was discontinued in the 1960s. The great appeal of the 5370P is that it gives collectors the best of both worlds in many ways, its 41 mm. diameter water-resistant platinum case provided with both solid and display screw backs, is perfectly constructed and sized for practical modern use whilst its overall aesthetic is distinctly vintage, with an oversized co-axial crown and dial with Breguet numerals and tachymeter scale. The movement is the superbly finished manually wound caliber CHR 29 535 PS with a redesigned rattrapante mechanism.

Although not a limited edition, Patek Philippe has self-professed that reference 5370P is highly limited in production. The reason behind this is the watch’s most unique feature – its black enamel dial, the creation for which is a time-consuming process requiring a high degree of specialisation and skill. After melting in an oven at 850 degrees Celsius, the coating is then allowed to solidify to a glasslike consistency, resulting in an intensely 'blacker than black colour'. To accommodate the small feet of the white-gold Breguet numerals, small holes must then be drilled into the dial, a process that requires great care due to the fragile and brittle nature of enamel. The split seconds chronograph’s movement (beautifully hand finished and visible through the glazed back) is housed in a 41 mm. platinum case that subtly merges with the lugs and crystal, resulting in a highly sophisticated and elegant watch. With a design reminiscent of the brand’s older watches, this is a must-have for the ultimate Patek fan.