Known for the exquisite gold and platinum models, this brand has collections in every hue of gold, and exclusive editions in platinum, reserving the stainless for sportier or very simple pieces like the Nautilus or the Aquanaut. Yet this latest announcement making the premier at Baselworld 2014, Patek Philippe introduces the Chronograph Annual Calendar 5960/1 watch in stainless steel.
This was the first in-house automatic chronograph the brand introduced, a real achievement for any brand, but a historical mark for them. The decision to take this iconic timepiece and market it in stainless is a bold move, and it will be important to see how it is received. While the stainless seems somewhat more casual or sportier in its appearance, the overall version and what it offers is very modern, very elegant. The timepiece has a chronograph hours and minutes indication at 6 o'clock, in addition it features a day-night indicator, as well as showcasing three apertures on the top of the dial, date, day and month.
The Patek Philippe Chronograph Annual Calendar 5960/1 A watch in this new steel version offers aesthetically pleasing results. Certainly the sportier aspect of the timepiece is apparent, but the brand worked to keep a formal side as well, blending the timepiece so well it will go both ways, thanks to the design. The numbers of the subdials have used fonts that are more modern in appearance, and using luminous paint to give it a little spice. Another redesign on this historic timepiece are the hands, crafted in black oxidized gold, they coordinate with the hour markers and are also coated with the luminescent paint.
The date apertures are encircled with distinctive frames, and are featured in black oxidized white gold, while the timepiece display uses more of the black appliques to further enhance the depth of the dial, really making those subdials pop. This latest stainless model also has the hour counter positioned in a new location on the circumference of the subdial, while the two half hour scales have taken the place on the concentric circles of the subdial. While it might seem like a subtle move, it really provides a balanced look and give the entire timepiece an exquisite appearance.
While the Patek Philippe 5960/1 A is spectacular on the outside, the inside is even more amazing. The movement is the total in-house manufactured CH 28-520 IRM QA 24, comprising a flyback chronograph, of course the annual calendar, a 45-55 hour power-reserve indication, and the day-night indication. The base movement is comprised of 302 components, with the calendar module adding another 154 parts. Sporting more than just a pretty face, this timepiece offers quality, reliability and accuracy beyond comprehension.
The patented Spiromax balance spring secures the timepiece, resulting in an antimagnetic balance wheel that provides superior isochronous properties which in turn means outstanding timepieces that the brand is respected for around the globe. Collectivity has long been the history of this brand and this timepiece will be no exception.
