Patek Philippe 5270G: Navigating a Complication Issue and Service Options

@Patek_Ambassador · 2020-05-04T12:24:57Z

Patek Philippe 5270G month complication issue? Explore expert advice on servicing, AD vs. factory repair, and warranty considerations for your grand complication.

@Patek_Ambassador

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

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In the world of luxury timepieces, even the most revered brands can encounter unexpected issues. @Patek_Ambassador's experience with a newly acquired Patek Philippe 5270G-001, where the month complication failed to advance, highlights the complexities of owning high horology. This thread delves into crucial questions about servicing, warranty, and the delicate balance between dealer responsibility and manufacturer expertise, offering valuable insights for any collector facing similar dilemmas.

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The month on my Patek Philippe 5270G-001 I purchased last month from a large Patek AD (who also sells preowned, one of the largest in the world ) on April 3rd will not change over. The issue didn’t become apparent to me until May 1st, which was the first changing-of-the-month since I purchased it on April 3rd. On May 1st, it never changed over from April to May in the month window — the “APR” simply dropped a few millimeters but never actually changed over. At that point I became quite concerned. It gets hung up slightly and doesn’t change. All other windows, functions, etc. work and change over flawlessly. I tried all 12 months, set it to the 30th or the 31st allowed it to manually tick over and all other complications related to the date change over except the month which gets hung up and never changes consistently across all 12 months. What is the issue here and is there anything I can do? I am quite unhappy about this and having to send this watch off to Henri Stern not to be seen for 6 months is just not acceptable to me even if the cost of repair is taken care of. The Patek AD says they have other watchmakers who they work with that can fix this which is not at Henri Stern. When I questioned them, they told me they have worked on Sky Moon Tourbillon, etc. and this was an easy and quick fix and no need to send the watch to Henri Stern for it to disappear for six months. I’ll refrain from naming the AD for now, but this whole situation is very concerning. A simple refund isn’t possible as the deal involved a trade of two other watches of mine that have since been sold. What do you guys make of this? What recommendations do you have?

Here it is four days into May and still not changing over:

And here is a test from December 31st to January 1st — same issue:

About the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 5270

The Patek Philippe Grand Complications reference 5270 is a perpetual calendar chronograph, succeeding the highly regarded reference 5970. It represents a significant evolution in Patek Philippe's grand complications lineup, being the first perpetual calendar chronograph to feature an in-house developed movement. This transition from a modified Nouvelle Lemania base caliber to a fully integrated Patek Philippe movement marks a notable advancement in the brand's technical independence and horological prowess. The 5270 maintains the classic aesthetic of its predecessors while introducing subtle design refinements.

The reference 5270 is housed in a 41 mm case, available in 18k white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold. The case design is characterized by a concave bezel and two-tier lugs, contributing to its distinctive profile. It is powered by the manual-winding caliber CH 29-535 PS Q, an integrated chronograph movement with a perpetual calendar mechanism. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 55 hours and is protected by a sapphire crystal, ensuring water resistance up to 30 meters.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a modern interpretation of a classic grand complication from Patek Philippe. Its in-house movement and refined case details distinguish it within the brand's offerings. Multiple dial variants have been produced, including silver, blue, and opaline, providing collectors with a range of aesthetic choices. The 5270 continues the tradition of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar chronographs, offering a blend of technical sophistication and traditional design.

Specifications

Caliber: CH 29-535 PS Q

Case: 18k White Gold, Rose Gold, or Yellow Gold

Diameter: 41 mm

Dial: Multiple variants available

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

For grand complication pieces, using an authorized Patek Philippe service center is generally recommended over an AD's in-house watchmaker, even if it means a longer wait. Patek Philippe watchmakers have access to all necessary parts, ensure proper finishing, and provide a warranty on their work, reducing the risk of hidden damage or substandard repairs.
While some argue for the convenience and speed of an AD's in-house watchmaker for repairs, especially for out-of-warranty watches, others emphasize that only Patek Philippe should open such a valuable timepiece to prevent potential issues like using non-certified parts or improper polishing, which could affect the watch's integrity and value.
The issue of a month wheel not cycling correctly often indicates a need for service due to misalignment or dried lubricants, especially in watches that are around 10 years old. This can happen even with new watches, as observed with a brand new 5396 annual calendar.
When purchasing a pre-owned watch, mechanical issues can arise, and the buyer assumes a certain level of risk. The AD should ideally provide a warranty or at least facilitate the repair process, potentially offering compensation or a loaner watch during the service period.
Contacting Patek Philippe's customer service directly, specifically mentioning individuals known for excellent service, can be an effective way to navigate repair logistics and ensure the watch receives proper attention and care.

The Discussion

lascases

May 4, 2020

Your watch...

... needs a service at Patek. They will fix everything. The downside is the wait (3-4 months). I would have a word with the seller - although they did not realize about the problem most likely. Just bad timing :-(

@Patek_Ambassador

May 4, 2020

They said they have a qualified watchmaker who has worked on Sky Moon Tourbillon, etc. that can easily repair this issue with my 5270 to avoid waiting 4 months at HSWA. What do you think? [nt]

lascases

May 5, 2020

I would not do it

and rather have it sent to Patek. Chrono QP can only be done in very few places without making a compromise.

MikiJ

May 4, 2020

Govberg...What the hell, they're a Patek AD

Call their Customer Service dept. and ask for Israel. I've spoke with him often and he fits the definition of "Customer Service". I would like to think they will take cafe of everything , including shipping, to make your Patek function as it should. BTW: Tell Israel that Miki said hi.

@Patek_Ambassador

May 4, 2020

I’d like to keep the AD anonymous for now to not hurt their reputation and to give them an opportunity to make it right. Is it possible to edit your post to remove their name? Thanks

FabR

May 4, 2020

Hi John, PM sent. [nt]