The Patek Philippe reference 5070 marked the return of the manufacture's manually wound chronograph after more than three decades and quickly became one of the most influential modern references in the brand's history. Introduced in 1998, the 5070 was powered by the legendary manually wound Calibre CH 27-70, based on the renowned Lemania 2310 ébauche and extensively modified and finished to Patek Philippe's exacting standards. Its large 42mm case, bicompax dial layout and beautifully balanced proportions represented a bold departure from previous chronographs, while preserving the classical elegance and exceptional craftsmanship for which Patek Philippe is renowned.

Produced in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold and finally platinum, the reference 5070 established the design language that would influence the manufacture's later manually wound chronographs, including the in-house references 5170 and 5172. Although it was the last standard-production Patek Philippe chronograph to utilise the highly respected Lemania-based movement, its combination of mechanical excellence, timeless styling and relatively limited production has made it one of the most sought-after modern chronographs among collectors. Today, the 5070 is widely regarded as a landmark reference, bridging the gap between Patek Philippe's historic chronographs and the era of fully in-house chronograph movements.