The quality of Patek Philippe movements is arguably unparalleled, and the present timepiece perfectly exemplifies their constant strive for technical supremacy. When launched, it was the thinnest column wheel chronograph movement ever made, furthermore single button and split seconds. It incorporates a number of technical features (such as teeth geometry and chronograph clutching/unclutching system) which allow for the remarkable thinness, and at the same time boost the energy efficiency and reliability of the chronograph. This caliber is furthermore Patek Philippe’s first fully proprietary chronograph movement. It made its first appearance in 2005, after a dedicated department was set up in Patek Philippe in 2003 specifically for its development.

Such technical prowess is coupled with timeless aesthetics harkening back to the Belle Époque timepieces, characterized by a cushion case and floral motives at the corners of the dial. The attention to details present in this timepiece is apparent when looking at some minutiae which would go unnoticed if not pointed out, such as the decorations to the frame of the movement (visible through the glazed case back). Even the buckle presents the same pattern, of course a design developed exclusively for this reference.
To top it all, such a marvel of mechanics and refinement is offered in stainless steel, an obvious reminder to the utilitarian roots of the chronograph complication. As the discerning connoisseur knows, stainless steel is the king of metals when it comes to Patek Philippe complicated timepieces: normally, given the high price demanded by the complex movement, such pieces are housed in a precious metal case. The few exceptions to this rule – both in vintage timepieces and in modern ones as well – are always produced in scarce numbers and considered instant classics and extremely collectible as, rarity notwithstanding, their owners – accurately selected by Patek Philippe with an application process - are highly unlikely to offer them on the market.
A final layer of appeal is given by the distinguished retailer who originally sold the watch: Beyer Chronometrie in Zurich. Arguably one of the most important watch retailers in Switzerland, the name is for many collectors synonymous with high-end watchmaking