Patek Philippe introduces three new versions of chronographs with additional complications expanding its vast selection of chronographs by unveiling three variations of the 5204, 5905, and 5930 models that illustrate its expertise in the field of complications, particularly in the measurement of short times. The chronograph has always played a leading role amid the vast repertoire of Patek Philippe complicated watches. Since 2005, the Manufacture has confirmed this mastery by developing a complete range of chronograph movements, with or without additional functions, entirely designed and crafted in its workshops.
The starting point was calibre CHR 27-525 PS, the world's thinnest split-seconds chronograph movement presented in 2005. Launched in 2009, calibre CH 29-535 PS —the third exclusive chronograph movement— combines traditional architecture including manual winding, column wheel, and toothed-wheel horizontal clutch system with six patented innovations. In the current collection, it powers a men's model reference 5172 and a ladies' model reference 7150/250.
In 2011, this base calibre was interpreted in a Grand Complication version incorporating a perpetual calendar as calibre CH 29-535 PS Q, currently present on the 5270 and 5271 models. Since 2012, it can also be found on reference 5204 in a split-seconds chronograph and perpetual calendar version as calibre CHR 29-535 PS Q.
The new Patek Philippe Split-Seconds Chronograph Perpetual Calendar reference 5204R-011 is a contemporary interpretation of an iconic model in 18K rose gold and with a slate gray dial that appears more brown than gray.
The split-seconds chronograph and perpetual calendar reference 5204 is heir to one of Patek Philippe's most sought-after Grand Complications. It has been available since 2016 in two rose gold versions, one with a silvered opaline dial and chocolate brown alligator strap as reference 5204R-001, the other with an opaline ebony black dial and rose gold Goutte —droplet— bracelet as reference 5204/1R. Patek Philippe offers connoisseurs a new variation on the rose gold case by combining this precious metal with a matching slate gray dial and strap. A rare and refined nuance that contributes to renewing the style of this great classic.
The entirely hand-polished rose gold case stands out for its sophisticated architecture, with a concave bezel and two-tier lugs.
Despite the complexity of the movement, the indications on the "sunburst" dial stand out for their perfect legibility. The day and month are displayed in two in-line apertures at 12 o'clock. The date hand at 6 o'clock incorporates the moon-phase aperture. Small seconds and the instantaneous 30-minute counter appear on two subdials at 9 and 3 o'clock. Two small round apertures display the leap-year cycle between 4 and 5 o’clock and the day/night indication between 7 and 8 o’clock —functions enabling accurate adjustment of the calendar. Whether by day or night, reading the time is facilitated by the applied hour-markers and Dauphine-type hands in rose gold, all with luminescent coating.
The transparent sapphire caseback offers a magnificent immersion into the heart of caliber CHR 29-535 PS Q, first introduced in 2012 on Reference 5204P-001. This movement is distinguished by its traditional architecture (manual winding, two column wheels, horizontal clutch) combined with seven patented innovations, including six for the chronograph and one for the split-seconds mechanism. An amazing sight enhanced by extremely meticulous manual finishing.
The new Reference 5204R-011 is worn on a shiny slate gray calf leather strap with an embossed alligator pattern and a rose gold fold-over clasp. Available with interchangeable sapphire crystal and solid case backs, it is joining the two existing versions in rose gold.
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