Patek Philippe 5970J Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

patekova · 2024-03-01T14:16:52Z

Discover if a Patek Philippe Ref. 5970J perpetual calendar chronograph can survive 14 years sealed and still handle a leap year. Patekova's story.

patekova

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

38 replies6521 views1 photos

Patekova's decision to unseal a Patek Philippe Ref. 5970J after 14 years of dormancy offers a fascinating real-world test of horological resilience. This article explores the journey of bringing a highly complicated perpetual calendar chronograph back to life, specifically observing its performance through a leap year cycle. Patekova's meticulous documentation provides valuable insights into the robustness of Patek Philippe's engineering, even after extended periods of inactivity.

38 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Before the answer, a little background. When I purchased this watch it was double sealed. Before unsealing it this past December I was told by a very high level Patek watchmaker, that it was extremely unlikely that the the calendar functions of the watch would work properly. I resigned myself to the likelihood that after finally unsealing it and awakening it fromi its hibernation, it was unlikely I would be able to wear it for several months due to it needing to be serviced. I thought to myself it’s now December with the leap year approaching, if I don’t unseal it now, when will I, if ever?

So with much trepidation and an equal amount of excitement, I cut open the seal and wound and set the watch. It was ticking and I was able to set the calendar functions. And over the next few days it seemed to be working fine. So far, so good. But, 3 big tests awaited.

1) At the close of December 31 would it switch over to January 1 and the leap year indicator advance to 4?

2) At the close of February 28 would the calendar switch over to February 29? And

3) At the close of February 29 would the calendar switch over to March 1?

To my extreme delight the answers are reflected in the photos.

Hope you enjoy the images and the story.

Best, Patekova

About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 5970

The Patek Philippe Complications reference 5970 is a specific iteration within the Complications model line. This reference is available in white metal, specifically platinum, and also in rose gold.

The case material for this reference can be platinum or rose gold. The collector notes a preference for platinum due to its weight, exclusivity, and durability.

This reference appeals to collectors who prefer white metals for dress watches, with platinum being a primary choice and rose gold a close second. Its availability in these materials positions it for those seeking specific precious metal options within the Complications collection.

Specifications

Caliber: R TO 27 PS QI

Case: Platinum

Diameter: 41mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The author clarifies that while a time-only watch might function after long periods, a complicated watch, especially its calendar functions, is less likely to operate correctly without service, a concern echoed by a Patek Philippe watchmaker.
A contributor expresses confidence in the watch's ability to function, attributing it to Patek Philippe's high manufacturing standards and the use of advanced synthetic lubricants that resist gumming over time.
Another member shares their positive experience, confirming that their own Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronographs also successfully navigated the leap year transition.
A contributor notes that watchmakers' predictions regarding long-dormant complicated watches are not always accurate, reinforcing the author's positive outcome.
Several community members advocate for wearing and enjoying such exceptional timepieces rather than keeping them sealed, emphasizing that watches are meant to be experienced.

The Discussion

GLau

Mar 1, 2024

Amazing that this grail

woke up from hibernation and did not skip a beat !👍 Glad the double-sealed got released to breathe ! Amazing story Patekova and thank you.

patekova

Mar 1, 2024

Thank you Gordon. I like your description “did not skip a beat”, I truly felt that I literally owed it to the watch (and perhaps secondarily to myself)

to release it from its confinement.

gary_g

Mar 1, 2024

A perfect watch.

Nothing else to say here. Other than enjoy and wear it in good health!

patekova

Mar 1, 2024

Thank you and that is my hope and plan. Yes, a perfect watch, at least to my eyes. My favorite modern Patek, 5970 in any metal.

gary_g

Mar 1, 2024

I don’t disagree.

amanico