Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 5970P

Patek Philippe Ref. 5970P

The only known, extremely collectible and immensely appealing platinum perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moonphases, luminous hands, certificate, service documents, technical drawings, additional caseback and box. Reference 5970 has by now achieved semi-mythical status among watch collectors, and any example of the model—especially in the incredibly attractive and very rare platinum/black dial livery—is a coveted gem. The present one, however, goes well beyond being a “simple” 5970P, as it is the so-far only known example featuring luminous hands—an upgrade fully confirmed by the documents. Not only does this detail make the watch unique, but it also presents aesthetic and practical benefits: fully harmonizing with the white graphics, the white luminous hands are aesthetically incredibly suited to the watch. Practically, they offer much better readability not only by night (obviously), but also by day, as they contrast with the black dial far more strongly than the standard metal hands. Following the long and legendary legacy of serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatches, including Patek Philippe references 1518, 2499, and 3970, the ref. 5970 was launched in 2004. With a new, sportier take on the classic aesthetics, the reference features a much larger case size measuring 40 mm in diameter, a significant increase from its predecessors. The combined larger face, rectangular chronograph pushers, and beveled lugs all contribute to a wristwatch with a strong masculine appeal. The ref. 5970 was Patek Philippe's very last perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch series to feature a Lemania-based cal. 2310. It was discontinued in 2011 with the introduction of its successor, the ref. 5270, for which Patek Philippe used its own in-house movement. The present example is set apart from its peers as it is the only one known to feature luminous hands. The client approached Patek Philippe to change the hands of his watch, and considering his good relationship with the brand, the request was accepted. The lot is further accompanied by Patek Philippe sketches showing the luminous hands.