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.

The Patek Philippe ref. 5270G-018 is without a doubt the quintessential Perpetual Calendar Chronograph —in a perfectly sized case measuring 41 mm in diameter— and one of the most coveted references among Patek collectors. The Patek Philippe ref. 5270 is available in 18K white gold —with a silvery opaline dial or blue sunburst dial— and in 18K rose gold with silvery opaline dial as we featured it here. A fourth watch is available in platinum with 58 baguette diamonds on the case and lugs and with a black lacquered dial under reference 5271P-001 and the fifth watch in a 50-piece limited edition was sold at Wempe in Münich back in 2013.

The 41 mm case in 18K white gold, features the stepped lugs in a very prominent way and the chronograph pushers are in the traditional rectangular shape with a rounded finish. The case features a highly polished finish and only the top and bottom of the pushers feature a nice satin-brushed finish.

Powering this grail, is the manual wound Patek Philippe chronograph calibre with perpetual calendar CH 29-535 PS Q, a movement that incorporates more innovative optimization features than any other traditional chronograph mechanism. This exceptional calibre is composed of 456 parts and 33 jewels, to provide a power reserve of 65 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph. Thanks to a group of six patent-pending inventions, this calibre is decidedly the most advanced of all traditional chronograph movements. This amazing chronograph with column-wheel control and a horizontal clutch was entirely developed and crafted in-house.

Sticker Price $164,000 USD. For more info on Patek Philippe click here.