2012 - Heading the line-up for Baselworld 2012 is the magnificent Patek Philippe Grand Complication Split Seconds Chronograph & Perpetual Calendar
This year, Patek Philippe brings the Ref. 5204, which combines the perpetual calendar complication with a split seconds chronograph complication.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 5204 replaces the Patek Philippe Ref. 5004.
Both watches feature a split seconds chronograph combined with a perpetual calendar, moon phase indicator and an A.M./P.M. indicator.
The new Ref. 5204 has a larger 40 mm case, as compared to the 36.7 millimeters of the Ref. 5004.
The new Ref. 5204 also has a redesigned dial and hands.
Here are the differences: while both watches have manually wound movements the Ref. 5204 has a brand new Caliber CHR 29-535 PS Q movement which beats at 28,800 vibrations per hours and has a 65 hour power reserve.
The movement in the Ref. 5004 beat at a slower 18,000 vibrations per hour and had a shorter 60 hour power reserve.
In updating the size of the Ref. 5204 to keep up with the times, Patek also made good use of the additional space.
A perpetual calendar is a mechanism that automatically takes into account the varying number of days in each month as well as leap years, so that the watch displays the correct date each month without the need of adjustment
In addition to the two main complications, the split seconds chronograph and perpetual calendar, the Ref. 5204 has several other complications.
The watch displays the day and month at the 12 o'clock position.
At 3 o'clock it has the standard 30 minute chronograph counter.
At 6 o'clock, the watch displays the day of the month and the moon phase indicator
A small round aperture at between the 3 to 4 o'clock positions indicates the leap year cycle, while another small round aperture at between the 3 to 4 o'clock positions serves as a day night indicator.
Two case backs are provided with the watch.
A full platinum case back and another with a sapphire crystal glass
Patek Philippe has thought of it all, allowing the wearer to use the watch to its fullest capabilities & still having a sleek, sophisticated & rare timepiece to covet & enjoy!
Strap: alligator with square scales, hand-stitched, matte black with deployment buckle in Platinum.
Water resistant to 30 meters / 100 feet.
