The Patek Philippe reference 5070 was the first chronograph-only wristwatch released by the firm since the 1960s when production of the iconic water resistant reference 1463 ceased. Introduced in 1998 at Basel, it was something of a shock to collectors that Patek would choose to reintroduce their chronograph-only line in such bold fashion – particularly the oversized 42mm case diameter and the dramatically thick, stepped bezel. First released in 18K yellow gold with a black dial, such as the present example, the manufacture drew inspiration for the design of the 5070 from a unique, split-seconds chronograph wristwatch from the early 1950s: the extraordinary reference 2512, which measured at an incredible 46.2mm in diameter with influences from the Art Deco period and large aviator’s watches. The reference 2512 is currently housed in the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva.

Released in a total of four metals it is estimated that 1,000 examples each were produced in yellow, pink and white gold with an estimated 500 examples produced in platinum. An important reference in the history of Patek Philippe chronographs, the ref. 5070 was the last reference to utilize the calibre 27-70 CHR based on the Lemania 2310 stamped with a Geneva seal. The reference was discontinued in 2009 making way for the ref. 5170, the first chronograph-only reference featuring the firm’s very first in-house movement.

Handsomely dressed in yellow gold and matched harmoniously with a black dial with matching gold graphics and applied Arabic numerals, many collectors agree that the yellow gold example of the reference is perhaps the most desirable in terms of its colour coordination and its homage paid to the legendary piece unique ref. 2512. One the firm’s most undervalued references, the present example in yellow gold from circa 2000 is offered with its full set of accessories and preserved in excellent overall condition. A fantastic chance for collectors to acquire an important Patek Philippe chronograph reference and the last to be stamped with a Geneva seal.