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 with a 42mm case and a dramatically thick, stepped bezel. The reference 5070 enjoys a unique spot in Patek Philippe’s history as one of the largest watches it had produced, and the last chronograph to use the modified, Lemania 2310-based ébauche before Patek Philippe switched to an in-house caliber with the introduction of the reference 5170.

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. Despite being the mechanical successor to the 1463, the reference 5070 inherited the design of the unique reference 2512 from 1950, an oversized, split-seconds chronograph in yellow gold with black dial that now resides in the Patek Philippe Museum. The large Arabic numerals and stepped bezel specifically come directly from the reference 2512, as well as the square pushers. Despite the large size of the case, the relatively slim profile and downturned lugs lends the watch a sophisticated and comfortable presence on the wrist.

Presented in a weighty platinum case with “bleu nuage” or “cloud blue” sunburst dial, the reference 5070P is elegant and sportive in equal measure. The current example is offered with its original Certificate of Origin and assorted accessories.