Patek Philippe 5170G Acquisition Story
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Patek Philippe 5170G Acquisition Story

By sanzaw · Feb 17, 2016 · 35 replies
sanzaw
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
35 replies3986 views2 photos
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Sanzaw recounts his three-year quest for the perfect manual-wind chronograph, culminating in the acquisition of the Patek Philippe Ref. 5170G. His journey highlights the nuanced decision-making process collectors face when balancing aesthetic appeal, movement quality, and wearability.

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This finally brought an end to my search for the perfect manual-wind chronograph, a hunt of almost 3 years!

It started with the Datograph, and its drop-dead gorgeous movement, and that large date! However, the thickness of the watch didn't quite do it for me. This led me to the 1815 Chronograph, and in extension, the boutique edition. Liked the thinner case, but unlike the datograph, it didn't strike to me as a timeless design, and the hunt lingered on.

It took me to a lot of strange turns and alleys, even almost giving up the idea of the perfect chronograph altogether at one point. I did come across the 5170G earlier, but being fixated on the Datograph, I just dismissed it as too svelte. But, that buttery smooth chronograph buttons, that dial, that feel on the wrist, endured in my head. It took a good 1 year plus for me to realise, yeah, the perfect chronograph I've been searching for has been known to me all this while!

Thank you fellow Purists, you've created a sizeable hole in my wallet, but have filled an equally sized void in my horological heart! 





About the Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5170

The Chronograph reference 5170, introduced in 2010, marked a significant development for Patek Philippe as it was the first serially produced chronograph to feature a fully in-house manufactured movement. This reference succeeded the reference 5070, transitioning from a Lemania-based caliber to a proprietary design, underscoring the brand's commitment to integrated manufacturing for its complications. It represents a modern interpretation of a classic chronograph layout within the Patek Philippe catalog.

The reference 5170 features a case measuring 39.4 mm in diameter and 10.9 mm in thickness, available in 18k white, rose, or yellow gold. It is equipped with the manual-winding caliber CH 29-535 PS, which offers a power reserve of 65 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 30 meters. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back, showcasing its intricate finishing.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a contemporary Patek Philippe chronograph with an in-house movement. Early variants, such as the yellow gold reference 5170J-001, featured a pulsometer scale, which was later replaced by a minute track on subsequent iterations. The various metal options and dial configurations provide distinct aesthetic choices for collectors, reflecting different periods of its production run.

Specifications

Caliber
CH 29-535 PS
Case
18k White Gold, Rose Gold, or Yellow Gold
Diameter
39.4 mm
Dial
Silver, Black, or Opaline
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
JR
jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)
Feb 17, 2016

We all have different definitions of the perfect chrono but your choice is certainly a great one! Bravo! I must agree the Dato (one of my fav) is a tad thick and not the most comfy on the wrist Enjoy your new 5170G in the best of health! Cheers Robin

DR
dr.kol
Feb 17, 2016

I think 5170 does not yet get the respect it deserves. The movement is simply great and the relative thinness of the case is appealing without mentioning the soft pushers. I'm just dreaming about 5170P to accompany my 5070P. Best, Kari

SA
sanzaw
Feb 17, 2016

The 5170P, now that would be perfection outdone!

AN
Ancienne Le Brassus
Feb 17, 2016

Keep on sharing the photos with us here! S

AG
agyzace
Feb 17, 2016

Wonderful watch and wonderful read of your journey to 'unearth' it. It is amazing how comfort on the wrist can be underestimated before we try watches on. I often have been amazed when a theoretically less outstanding watch, but perfect on the wrist, can be a killer when you try it on and really put its competitors to the shade. Wear it in the best of health for a long long time! Alex

CH
chuck19
Feb 17, 2016

like you, I've also been on the search for the 'perfect' chrono and it comes down to pp5170/5070 and Datograph. It is a difficult choice since both are outstanding. Will decide to pull the trigger when the time is right. Enjoy your 5170 in good health bro. Cheers !

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