Patek Philippe Launch Ref. 5373P-001 Split-Seconds Monopusher Chronograph Perpetual Calendar for Left-Handers

Outside of certain divers, left-hand watches are a bit of an oddity at the higher echelons of watchmaking because they require reworking the entire movement so that it operates properly with the crown at 9 o’clock instead of its traditional position at 3 o’clock. Which is why it’s surprising that there have been two significant ‘destro’ watches launched this year. First was the Rolex Destro GMT Master II and now the Patek Philippe 5373P-001 Split Seconds Monopusher Chronograph Perpetual Calendar for Left-Handers.

However, converting an automatic GMT to be a left-hander is a totally different ballpark to a manual split-seconds chronograph perpetual calendar. Not only does the winding system have to be moved from 3 o’clock to 9 o’clock, the placement of every single subdial and indicator has to move, it’s not a simple case of rotating or flipping the movement, everything has to be relocated for the new orientation. That alone is enough to make Patek Philippe worthy of being called the masters of Grand Complications.

The ref. 5373P-001 itself has a 38.3mm diameter case made from platinum with interchangeable solid and sapphire exhibition casebacks. The platinum has been paired with a dark charcoal dial that has a gentle fumé gradient, which gives the whole piece a serious aspect. That seriousness is off-set by the bright red split-second chronograph hands and 60-minute timer. Creating an overall impression of sportiness that’s more expected of models like the Nautilus and Aquanaut than a Grand Complication.

Speaking of complications, let’s list them off quickly. There are hours, minutes, small seconds, split-second chronograph, 60-minute timer, day, date, months, leap year indicator, moonphase and day/night indicator. All controlled and powered by the manual Calibre CHR 27-525 PS Q, the thinnest split seconds chronograph perpetual calendar movement in the world. Plus, despite its myriad complications It has a weekend-proof power reserve of 48-hours.

While its existence may come as a surprise, the fact that the Patek Philippe 5373P-001 is highly exclusive and price on request is no surprise whatsoever. It’s a novelty worthy of the finest collections.