Comparison
Gary G presents an exceptional photo comparison of three iconic Patek Philippe chronographs: the 5070, 5270, and 5970. This article, born from a unique opportunity provided by a fellow collector, offers detailed visual insights and initial impressions, helping enthusiasts discern the subtle yet significant differences between these highly coveted references.
All that I can say is that it is good to have friends! Especially good friends who put up with one's quirks during watch-related trips, and then to top it off provide great watches for photo shoots.
A Gentleman Purist handed off these three watches to me yesterday, with the following instructions:
1. Photograph them, and in particular try to get some comparisons of the 5970 and 5270
2. Wear them a bit, but not in the hot tub!
I was pleased to comply on both fronts, and with gratitude to my good pal, here are some photos of these three great pieces. Let's start with the 5070P. Not an easy watch to photograph, especially if you are trying to get a good rendering of that fantastic dial color, but I think this first shot is quite close:
Over the next few hours, I did (carefully) wear each of these pieces. The 5070 got the most wrist time -- the heft of the PT case makes it feel great on the wrist, and I love the dial color. The 5970 was a privilege to have on my wrist, but I felt I was under-dressed (it would be an absolute killer business watch for me, to be sure). From a wearability standpoint, I can see why someone would move from the 5970 to the more "modern/casual" look of the 5270, but I think if the PP fairy were to leave one under my pillow, I'd be wishing for the 5970.
Hope you enjoyed! I did take some wrist shots, which I will append in a second post.
Best,
Gary G
The Patek Philippe reference 5070, part of the Complications collection, marked a significant return for the brand to large-format chronographs. Introduced in 1998, it was the first non-perpetual calendar chronograph produced by Patek Philippe since the reference 1463, which ceased production in the early 1960s. Its design drew inspiration from a unique Patek Philippe aviator's watch from the 1940s, characterized by its prominent case and dial layout, yet reinterpreted for a contemporary audience. This reference established a new aesthetic direction for the brand's chronographs, moving towards more substantial case dimensions.
The watch features a 42mm case, initially offered in 18k yellow gold, housing the manual-winding Caliber CH 27-70. This movement, based on a Nouvelle Lémania ébauche, was extensively finished and modified by Patek Philippe, meeting the brand's stringent quality standards. It provides a power reserve of approximately 55 hours. The dial, in this specific configuration, is black, protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters. The fixed bezel frames the dial, and the watch is typically fitted with a leather strap.
Reference 5070 appeals to collectors interested in modern Patek Philippe chronographs that combine traditional movement architecture with a more contemporary case size. Its limited production run and the subsequent introduction of variants in other precious metals contribute to its collectibility. The reference represents a distinct period in Patek Philippe's chronograph history, bridging vintage inspirations with a new era of larger watch designs.
The uploader seems to have flipped one of the shots in the original post -- let's try again... Hope that's better! Best, Gary G
And the 5970 G is terms of elegance. There is something in between the 5070 P and the 5970 G: The 5970 P. I would have hard time to decide which of the two " P " I prefer. If only the 5270 didn't have these 2 small portholes... Best, and thanks for the photo session, my friend. Nicolas
As some of you may know, wrist shots are not really my thing -- but I gave it the old college try with these 3 pieces! I hope these give some impression of what the watches look like in actual use... Best, Gary G
I must be getting older because lately PPs are more and more luscious to me, particularly when someone as talented as you photographs them, Gary. In terms of preference, I have to agree with my esteemed colleague of the French persuasion. 5070, 5970 then 5270 in that order. This will sound unintentionally harsh, but compared to the other two, the 5270 is somewhat sterile dial side. That's entirely subjective, of course, and the 5270 is a marvelous watch on its own. Next to the other two, though,
Hi Gary, What an experience you had! Thanks a lot for sharing with us. I definitely have to spend some time with a 5270 on my wrist to make an opinion on this one. Best Dje ps: I love them all but I'm still a fan of the 5170! This message has been edited by Dje on 2012-01-29 10:23:39
What a pleasure to open your post this Sunday morning. This is the best comparison I have seen of these modern Patek chronos. Your photos capture their essence. Perhaps the 5970 with more old-school charm and imperfection, and the 5270 with more new-school charm and technology, and the latter with a more crisp feel of the dial, movement, and the case. One interesting aspect of these watches that is little mentioned is the case detail of the 5270. Looks like the 5270 appears considerably bigger o
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