The Patek Philippe reference 5070 was the first modern-era chronograph-only wristwatch released by the firm since the end of production for the reference 1463 in the 1960s. Introduced in 1998 at Baselworld, it was something of a shock to collectors that Patek would choose to reintroduce a chronograph model in such bold fashion – particularly the 42mm case dimension and the dramatically thick, stepped bezel. A worthy and highly anticipated successor to the classic reference 1463 chronograph, the 5070 would also feature a water-resistant case with a screw-down case back.

For the tenth anniversary of the release of the first reference 5070, Patek Philippe launched a platinum-cased version with a sublime blue dial. The platinum 5070 was only in production from 2008 until 2010, and according to our research, was manufactured in the fewest number of pieces of all 5070 models. Though the case architecture assures a commanding presence, in platinum these attributes are elevated. The dial color is particularly mesmerizing, as it is difficult to accurately pinpoint the exact shade of blue. Patek itself refers to the color as “bleu nuage” or “cloud blue”, but there are truly myriad names for the colors visible at different angles or under different light sources. The oversized Arabic numerals, also reminiscent of aviators’ watches and one of the main design elements carried over from the historical reference 2512 on which the 5070 is based, are rendered in white gold, adding a subtle lustre to the already superb dial.

The desirability of the present reference 5070P is heightened due to its outstanding state of preservation and completeness, remaining untouched within its factory seal, ready to be opened and treasured after a decade of safekeeping. Furthermore, its serial numbers and the date indicated on its Certificate of Origin make this example the earliest known reference 5070P to appear publicly, enhancing its appeal for the connoisseur.