Patek Philippe 5170P Dial Dynamics

Time to watch · 2018-01-08T04:41:42Z

Explore the Patek Philippe 5170P chronograph's dynamic blue dial and its stunning transformations under different lighting conditions. A collector's daily wear review.

Time to watch

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

29 replies5482 views6 photos

Time to watch shares his initial impressions of the Patek Philippe Ref. 5170P, focusing on the captivating way its dial transforms under varying light conditions. His observations highlight a key aspect of watch appreciation often overlooked in static photography: the dynamic interplay of light and material that brings a timepiece to life on the wrist. This exploration offers valuable insights for collectors considering this reference.

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After wearing the 5170p for a short while,

I thought to share some initial impressions.

If there was one thing i had to communicate

to my fellow purists about this watch, it would

have to be about how the dial changes significantly

due to different lighting conditions.

Indoors the dial exhibits a darker tone more subdued

and conservative.

However, when the lighting becomes intense the

dial comes alive !

And a few in car shots showing how the dial changes

at different angles.

To say I’m happy with this watch is an understatement.

The weight , case size and over all feel and look of

this piece has me wearing it daily.

And I don’t see that changing anytime soon.

All the best

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

The Patek Philippe 5170P's dial is highly dynamic, changing significantly with different lighting conditions, appearing darker and more subdued indoors, but coming alive in intense light.
While appreciating the 5170P, one collector still prefers the 5070P's dial color, lack of stones, movement, and case proportions, highlighting personal preferences in Patek Philippe chronographs.
The 5170P is considered a fantastic and striking watch, with its blue dial and baguette indices being particularly well-executed by Patek Philippe.
The 5170P's blue dial is superb, making it a challenging piece to resist for collectors who already have multiple blue-dial watches.
A glossy blue strap could further enhance the visual impact of the 5170P's dial, though the black strap complements its elegant nature.

The Discussion

amanico

Jan 8, 2018

Very interesting observations and pictures on the color of the dial. Thank you! [nt]

Time to watch

Jan 8, 2018

Most welcome Nicolas,

Viewing this piece at one location and at one time won’t give you a full understanding of the dial. Living with the watch daily it’s easier to see the different ways the dial changes under different lighting conditions. Sincerely H.

amanico

Jan 8, 2018

That's very often the thing with blue dials. They are very hard to capture in picture, but they are magic. [nt]

Time to watch

Jan 8, 2018

As this is my first blue dial watch ever,

I’m learning fast that this is the case . Magic indeed! Sincerely H.

Huei

Jan 8, 2018

Thanks for sharing the beautiful pictures.

Try it with a blue glossy strap. The effect will be even more impressive

Time to watch

Jan 8, 2018

You’re most welcome Huei,

I do plan to change the strap at some point in the future and your suggestion of a glossy blue strap sounds right! But for now the black strap complements the elegant nature of the watch in my humble opinion. Sincerely H.