Patek Philippe

• cal. 27-70/155 Q manual winding nickel lever movement, stamped with the seal of Geneva, 24 jewels, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and five positions, Gyromax balance • black dial, applied baton indexes, white hour, minute and second hands, outer ring for tachometer, apertures for day and month, three subsidiary dials for constant seconds combined with 24-hour indication, 30-minute register combined with leap-year indication and date combined with moon-phases, white feuille hands • platinum case, two square chronograph buttons to the band, screw-down sapphire crystal back, additional solid platinum case-back, diamond to the band at 6 • case, dial and movement signed • with a platinum Patek Philippe folding-clasp

Collection of the Original Owner

The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. The dial and case are in an excellent condition as the watch seems to have never been worn, the hallmarks on the case are clearly visible. **The leather strap of this wristwatch is made from endangered species; please refer to important notices for further information.**
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The present 5970P is the only known example with white hour and minute hands. The special request for white hands was made by the client and is indicated on the 2010 Extract from The Archives.  The resulting combination of black dial and white feuille  hands is outstanding.   

The reference 5970 was launched at Basel in 2004. It replaced the smaller diameter reference 3970.  The new model was impressive for its size and was also reminiscent of the first series reference 2499 with square chronograph pushers and sculpted lugs.

This reference was in production from 2005 to 2010. The model was first available in white gold. The next year the rose gold version was introduced. In 2007 both white and rose gold models were discontinued. The much anticipated yellow gold model was released and then discontinued after one year. Platinum was the final version and was released in 2009 and discontinued in 2010.

The platinum version of ref. 5970, is thought to have had the smallest production of this model. There are less then 25 examples known in platinum .  The present timepiece, with its unique white hands and beautifully contrasting black dial, offers a rare opportunity for collectors seeking to add such a bespoke piece to their collection.

This watch has never previously been offered at auction.