Damianp offers a unique long-term comparison of three significant Patek Philippe hand-wound chronographs: the 5170G, 5170P, and 5172G. Rather than focusing on technical specifications, damianp delves into the distinct 'character' each reference embodies, illustrating how these watches, though similar on paper, cater to different moods and occasions in a collector's life. This personal perspective provides invaluable insight for those considering these iconic chronographs.
What‘s better to do on a sunday morning, than spending time with one‘s favorite hobbies. I‘ve seen questions regarding the comparision of these timepieces from time to time, so I thought I might write down my experiences after spending a longer time with all three of them (worn the 5172g for a couple weeks).
These watches are much closer on paper, than in real life. A year ago I thought myself that owning all three of them wouldn‘t make much sense. But they are very different in character. When choosing my „watch of the day“ now, these three are not competing with each other, but with other watches in my collection. Needless to say that I love hand wound chronographs. In chronological order:
The 5170g is the understated and laid-back mature man of the three. Spending the whole evening in a great bar while smoking cigars, drinking whisky and having philosophical conversations with good old friends? Going to a serious business meeting and want to be in a calm mood for it? This is the choice.
The 5170p is the sharp, strong and elegant „alpha male“. In today‘s business meeting you don‘t want to be calm, you want to be aggressive. And in the evening you‘re going to a big party. You want something with wrist presence, without being too much in your face. A shimmering, yet dark blue dial. Diamonds on the dial, yes. But most people wouldn‘t recognize them as diamonds. It might be the boldest of the three, but there‘s still some mystery coming with it.
The 5172g is the casual and fun daily wearer. There‘s no business meeting today. It might even be a sunday. You‘re going to have a fun lunch with your family. When looking at your wrist, you‘re being reminded to not always take life too serious. It‘s about the nice and fun things. Just smile.
If you think about getting one of these and two or all of them are on your final shortlist, choose the character you want. Don’t try to find the „most beautiful“ one. They all look great in their own way. 5170p and 5172g are not similar just because they both have blue dials. 5170g and 5170p are not similar just because they‘re both 5170s.
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
About the Patek Philippe Chronograph Ref. 5172
The Patek Philippe Chronograph reference 5172 represents a contemporary interpretation of the classic manually wound chronograph within the brand's collection. It succeeded the reference 5170, introducing updated case proportions and dial aesthetics while retaining the traditional two-register chronograph layout. This reference is distinguished by its round pushers and a slightly larger case diameter, offering a modern presence on the wrist while honoring Patek Philippe's heritage in complicated watchmaking. It is a key offering for collectors seeking a pure chronograph function without additional complications.
The 5172 is typically presented in a precious metal case, housing the in-house caliber CH 29-535 PS. This manual-wind movement is visible through a sapphire crystal case back, showcasing its traditional architecture and finishing. The movement provides a substantial power reserve, ensuring reliable timekeeping and chronograph operation. The front crystal is also sapphire, protecting a dial designed for legibility with applied numerals and a pulsometer scale.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Patek Philippe's commitment to traditional haute horlogerie and the art of the manually wound chronograph. Its design cues, such as the syringe hands and applied Breguet numerals, evoke vintage chronographs while being executed with contemporary precision. The 5172 stands as a testament to Patek Philippe's enduring capability in producing high-quality, in-house chronograph movements, positioning it as a significant piece for enthusiasts of complicated timepieces.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CH 29-535 PS
- Case
- 18k white gold
- Diameter
- 41mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
