Patek Philippe 5373P: Grand Complication Review

amanico · 2023-05-13T22:01:10Z

Explore the Patek Philippe 5373P vs. 5004 debate. Collectors weigh in on the 5373P's 'destro' configuration, sportier design, and dial aesthetics.

amanico

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

41 replies5648 views4 photos

Nicolas, known as 'amanico' on WatchProSite, initiates a compelling discussion comparing two significant Patek Philippe references: the 5004 and the 5373P. His detailed analysis of the 5373P's proportions, sportier aesthetic, and 'destro' configuration provides a rich foundation for collectors to weigh in on Patek Philippe's evolving design language. This article distills the community's diverse perspectives on whether the 5373P represents a bold, successful step forward or a departure from Patek Philippe's classical heritage.

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Compared to the 5004, the 5373P is two millimeters bigger and with a thickness of almost 13 mm, a tad thinner, so the proportions are more harmonious.

You also have a sportier look, and a destro configuration.

I also doubt that the movement is still the Lemania.

So, the " Burger Class " of the 5004 for you, or the cooler 5373P?

The thing which still bugs me: The holes in the dial, with the leap year, the month and the day... I think that without these holes, it would have been my favorite.

You?

Best,

Nicolas

About the IWC Ref. 5004

The Patek Philippe reference 5004 is a highly regarded grand complication, combining a split-seconds chronograph with a perpetual calendar. This reference was a significant offering in Patek Philippe's catalog, representing a sophisticated blend of technical mastery and traditional watchmaking. It was produced in limited numbers, making it a sought-after piece among collectors of complex horology.

The watch features a 36mm platinum case with a thickness of 15mm, housing the manual-winding caliber CHR 27-70 Q. This movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours and is protected by a sapphire crystal. The dial is presented in silver opaline, offering clear legibility for its numerous indications. The case is water-resistant to 30 meters.

As a split-seconds perpetual calendar, the reference 5004 appeals to collectors who value both intricate mechanical solutions and classical design. Its production run from 1996 to 2012 saw various dial and case material iterations, though platinum was a prominent offering. The integration of two major complications in a relatively compact case underscores its appeal within the realm of high-end watch collecting.

Specifications

Caliber: CHR 27-70 Q

Case: platinum

Diameter: 36mm

Dial: silver opaline

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The 5373P's 'rock-star red accents' and overall flashy aesthetic are polarizing, with some finding it too garish for a traditional Patek Philippe, preferring the more classic dial layouts of references like the 5970 or 5004.
Despite acknowledging the high level of complexity and finishing, some contributors express disappointment with the 5373P's design, feeling it lacks the beauty and coherent aesthetic expected from Patek Philippe, especially when compared to the 'masterpiece' 5004.
Many purists prefer the classical look of the 5004, considering it quintessential Patek Philippe with a balanced and complete design, while the 5373P's dial holes and overall aesthetic are perceived as 'trying too hard' and not harmonious.
A counter-argument suggests that the 5373P, like other initially controversial references such as the 5094 or Zenith Daytona, might gain appreciation over time, especially after discontinuation, despite initial reservations about elements like the day-month cutting into the sub-dials.
Specific design criticisms include the appearance of the dial apertures as 'thrown in' rather than integrated, and the moon phase design feeling mismatched with the sub-dials, suggesting a lack of cohesive design language.
The 5004 is lauded for its classical look, perfect size, and thickness that hints at its movement, embodying a 'small, perfectly formed, big watch' ideal for loyal fans.

The Discussion

KCLQMULKU

May 13, 2023

Another amazing release, and fascinating to see how things continue to evolve since the 5004.

But I remain a loyal fan of the 5004. I love its classical look, the size is perfect, and even the thickness which hints at its movement. A small, perfectly formed, big watch! 😆

amanico

May 13, 2023

I share your love for the 5004.

enjoythemusic

May 13, 2023

And if you flip it upside-down it's an entirely new timepiece. 😊

Revolutionary! Investors like Mr. Wonderful would approve.

Arronax

May 13, 2023

Some GP vibes

I am generally not a fan of PP design but this sportier take will definitely appeal to a younger audience which is probably its main purpose, and therefore a yes from me.

Clueless_Collector

May 13, 2023

Yes, yes, yes but only in my virtual reality life.

patrick_y

May 13, 2023

I wouldn't wear it! It's not me! Made for rock stars, not for overly normal people like me.

That's one really flashy watch... I suppose I'd wear it if I were wearing a big red leather suit, big black sunglasses (Persol if possible), and wearing gloves with metal spikes and carrying a guitar and a microphone at a rock concert. In the meanwhile, I have no plans to become a rock concert musician. The movement could be inserted into a more "traditional" looking watch without the garish red accent. Excuse me, not garish, rock-star red accents. I also don't like the dial layout. I like the 5