Baselworld 2011 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph
Today, is press day at Baselworld, and although some brands do not begin exhibiting their novelties until the official opening day, which is tomorrow, March 24, 2011 -- most brands do begin revealing their novelties a day early. Patek Philippe, for example, just unveiled a beautiful 41 mm perpetual calendar chronograph timepiece. The chronograph movement features a column-wheel, which is preferable when compared to the more economical cam and lever chronograph design (both chronograph types are reliable, but the column-wheel design allows for a smoother actuation of the start, stop and reset functions, plus it is more luxurious, and looks great when you are examining the movement). The case is 18K white gold, and features interchangeable casebacks (one is solid and the other is an exhibition caseback). Check back and I should have some in-person images of the new Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref 5270 very soon.
Patek Philippe Press Release
Patek Philippe is expanding its classic chronograph collection with the introduction of its very latest perpetual calendar model, a complication that has always occupied a place of honour in the brand's collections. This new flagship of haute horlogerie, the Réf. 5270, is fitted with a unique column wheel chronograph movement. The day and month appear in a double window at 12 o'clock, with a hand indicating the date around the moon phase. The leap year is displayed in a small round window at 4:30 opposite a matching window for the day/night display at 7:30. Like all the brand's grand complications, it has two interchangeable backs: one in sapphire crystal that reveals the complexity of the movement and the elegance of its finishing, the other, a white gold solid back that can be personalized with a dedication or an engraving.
Technical Specifications
Movement
Hand-wound, CH 29-535 PS Q calibre
Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds, perpetual calendar (date, day, month and leap years), chronograph, moon phase and day/night indicator
Case
18K white gold, 41 mm
Sapphire crystal
Interchangeable solid back and sapphire crystal back
Water-resistant to 30 m / 3 ATM
Dial
Silvered opaline
Black oxidised white-gold hourmarkers and hands
Day and month windows at 12 o'clock
Moon phase and date at 6 o'clock
Day/night indicator at 7.30, leap year indicator at 4.30
Instant 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and small seconds counter at 9 o'clock
Bracelet/Strap
Matt black, hand-stitched, square-scale alligator leather with 18K white gold folding clasp
Source: Patek Philippe
Retail TBD