Focusing squarely on the Split-Seconds Chronograph, Patek Philippe breathes new life into a watch it first released in the 1920’s. The new Ref. 537e features a breathtaking genuine black enamel dial. This new watch is an interesting blend of past developments. It utilizes the caliber CH 29-535 PS that the brand released in 2009 with a manually wound column wheel horizontal clutch. Then, in 2012, Patek launched the evolution of that watch: the Ref. 5204 Split-Seconds Chrono with a perpetual calendar.
Now, for the first time, the brand incorporates the CHR 29-535 PS chronograph caliber (without perpetual calendar) in the Ref. 5370. This pure split-seconds watch features a two-pusher model: one pusher for the basic start, stop, reset functions and an additional on/off button in the crown for the split-seconds function.
The caliber in this timepiece is one of the most progressive the brand makes. Much like the powerful and complex engines of some of the finest cars, this movement offers intricate balance for superb power. The clutch wheels with patented tooth profiles boost the efficiency in the power transmission and reduce wear. The depth of the clutch wheels is accomplished with an eccentric column wheel cap at the outer end of the clutch level. The brake lever (that stops the chronograph wheel) is synchronized directly with the clutch lever and a slotted minute counter cam brings the chronograph and split-seconds hand to a coasting stop instead of immediately blocking them.
In addition to these new features of the mechanical chronograph, other innovations to operate the Rattrapante function have been introduced. Such features include a newly designed isolator that uncouples the split-seconds wheel from the chronograph wheel when lap times are stopped to eliminate friction and prevent a loss of balance amplitude. The chronograph and split-seconds hands are kept in precise alignment thanks to a lever that positions a ruby roller between two flat heart cams.
Naturally, in true Patek Philippe style, all components are meticulously finished to the finest detail and can be viewed via a sapphire caseback. You can read about other Patek Philippe watch unveilings from BaselWorld 2015 on ATimelyPerspective this week.
Roberta Naas is the author of six books on watches and the founder of the online watch publication: ATimelyPerspective.com.
Roberta Naas is the founder of the on-line watch publication, ATimelyPerspective.
