Patek Philippe

Mr.Gatsby
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Experiencing the ref. 5170j

Took the plunge on this less than popular reference recently and have started to dedicate a portion of my time and finances on understanding Patek chronographs. The manually wound chronograph has been a favorite complication of mine for years. However due to my varied interest in watch collecting, I have yet to focus my energy on this segment till now.

Many years ago I picked up a Roger Dubuis Hommage H40, and subsequently in recent years a Datograph. I’ve decided to start from the later iterations of manually wound Pateks and then make my way back, hence the ref. 5170j.

Some quick key points:
1. Classic looking aesthetics paying homage to the ref. 1463
2. Proportions and wearability are clearly there
3. First in-house chronograph movement CH 29-535 PS

There has been numerous comparisons made on the ref. 5170 versus other chronographs, most notably the 5070 and the Datograph. And while the comparisons arguably tip in favor of both the ref. 5070 and Datograph, I still ended up buying one.

The reasons are as such:
1. It is a real bargains versus a vintage ref. 1463, or ref. 130
2. Wearability wise it is (especially in my case) probably better compared to other larger manual wound chronographs, making them less classically proportioned
3. I really appreciate the movement fwiw. Aesthetics aside. The operation of the chronograph is superfluous and buttery. Against the Datograph (superfluous but there is a firmness and rigidity to it) I wouldn’t say it’s any lesser.
4. In the history of Patek, I believe this reference is sort of a milestone reference, being the first modern chronograph to sport Patek’s first in-house movement. For that, I do appreciate it.
5. Against the other iterations (P version aside), I feel that the J is most faithful in terms of paying homage to the vintage, relative to the G and R iterations.

I would love to experience the 5070 some day, and perhaps even the vintage ref. 1463. As quoted previously, the 5070 in Porsche terms is akin to a 993. If so, the 5170 to me is like a 997. While the 993 is more collectible indefinitely, the 5170 can be enjoyable to “drive” too due to its wearability.

Some pics:









I welcome everyone to chime in with their thoughts on this reference. It would be a great pleasure to discuss, learn, experience and appreciate these watches with the community.

BR,
Gatsby