As the heir of Patek Philippe’s grand 1941 classic the reference 1518, the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph ref. 5270 was originally launched at Baselworld 2011 to replace the iconic Patek reference 5970. Some of the main differences between the ref. 5970 and the ref. 5270 includes a bigger case measuring 41 mm vs. 39 mm on the ref. 5970 and an in-house movement powering the ref. 5270 instead of the Lemania 2310-based CH27 calibre in the ref. 5970. Additionally, there are some other changes on the dial of the ref. 5270G-018 when compared to its predecessor. Originally released in 18K white gold, and also available in 18K rose gold and platinum, now for the very first time, the legendary Perpetual Calendar Chronograph from Patek Philippe is also available in 18K yellow gold as reference 5270J.

Water-resistant to 30 meters, it is a very elegant case for this timeless watch that pairs a concave bezel with two-tier lugs. The silvery opaline dial with applied baton indexes and leaf-shaped hands in yellow gold assures excellent legibility. The displays of the perpetual calendar are tastefully balanced with an analog date at 6 o'clock and a double aperture for the day and month at 12 o'clock. They are complemented with two small round apertures for the day/night indicator and the leap year cycle as well as the typical moon-phase window.

The beating heart of this watch is its caliber CH 29-535 PS Q, the first chronograph movement with a perpetual calendar developed in 2011 and crafted entirely by Patek Philippe. It combines traditional architecture —horizontal clutch, column wheel, and manual wound— with six patented innovations for the chronograph functions and stands out with its extremely thin calendar mechanism. The movement can be admired through the sapphire-crystal case back. A solid back in 18K yellow gold is also included.

The new ref. 5270J-001 is delivered on a hand-stitched matte chocolate brown alligator strap with large square scales secured by a yellow gold fold-over clasp. It replaces the previous platinum and rose-gold models to accommodate the individual preferences of aficionados of Patek Philippe's grand complications.

Sticker Price $168,970 USD. For more info on Patek Philippe click here.