Discussion
Dje initiates a profound discussion on the quest for a 'grail watch' within the Patek Philippe collection, specifically debating the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A. He explores the concept of accepting minor imperfections in pursuit of an otherwise ideal timepiece, contrasting the 5711/1A with other Patek Philippe models like the 5170J chronograph and even A. Lange & Söhne, all while seeking a daily wearable watch that meets specific criteria for readability, water resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
As you possibly know now I've been hoping for a Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A for a while and as times passes and maybe the outcome gets closer (but not enough yet), you can imagine that I keep wondering again and again if I made the right choice. Of course if you're tired of my subjects feel free to forget this one and skip it directly to the next thread! 
My criteria are simple. I want to adopt a Patek Philippe modern wristwatch that I can wear everyday. I ideally need a watch that I can read by full night, in the total darkness. I'd prefer it to be reasonably waterproof (and also rain proof). I want a watch that won't make me look older than I am.
Reading these requirements you can easily realize that there are not many options. I've considered the Aquanaut 5167A but I definitely prefer the Nautilus 5711/1A for its stronger design that particularly attracts.
In fact I find this watch ideal, if not perfect!
Patek Philippe 5711/1A
I find it ideal, if not perfect, but there's one slight point that is not perfect for me. It's not so important but I am especially interested in chronometry watches, also called sometimes observatory watches. These watches are generally simple, three hands watches, with hacking function. They are also generally manual wind and without date.
I don't mind for the date and the automatic function of the 5711/1A, they are a plus for an everyday watch, so I can stand them.
But there are other options in the Patek Philippe range. The first and most obvious one is a new Patek Philippe that particularly seduced me, and even if it seems to be so far debated. The watch is the new chronograph 5170J. It is manual wind, and has a hacking function. The calibre is IMO the most appealing current Patek Philippe calibre out of the Grand Complications range.
Unfortunately the watch would be perfect and could be my ultimate watch, but it is out of my reach (hopefully it will be a total commercial failure and the issued watches will be rapidly sold on the second hand market for one tenth of their retail price).
Patek Philippe 5170J
Of course that's not too sure if you have a look at this impressive calibre below.
The new chronograph calibre by Patek Philippe
There would be another option that is IMVHO the best modern watch to represent the traditional "Observatory" watch, with all the wished functions: three hands, with a central hacking seconds hand, no date, and manual wind. The Richard Lange from A. Lange & Söhne is that one.
But it is not a Patek Philippe (and I want one to live with a Patek Philippe daily and understand what you're all talking about here). Furthermore the platinum version is particularly expensive and the pink gold version would definitely make me look older than I am (at least that's my wife's position).
A. Lange & Söhne Richard Lange in pink gold
Certainly a Patek Philippe 5098R (without seconds hand) would suppress the hacking problem (I know that's an easy solution but it works), and the pink gold colour would look less old and more vintage. In fact I love that one, but it is not really waterproof, and not really more luminous at night.
Patek Philippe 5098R
I had other options like a 5146G or even better a 5205G, but these are too costly for me now, since the last price increase. A 5124G would be nice too, but I think I prefer the Nautilus.
I'd like to ask all Patek Philippe calibre 324 users how they feel about their calibre without a hacking function?
What is the average precision of your watch? Do you reset the time often?
Would you like a more precise watch or do you think that the precision is enough?
Just for the pleasure of asking and reading your opinions…..
Thank you for your help.
Cheers
Dje
The Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Moon Phases reference 5146, introduced in 2005, represents a significant offering in the brand's annual calendar complication lineage. This reference succeeded the popular 5035 and 5036 models, refining the aesthetic and technical presentation of the annual calendar with moon phases. It is characterized by its balanced dial layout, integrating day, date, month, moon phase, and power reserve indications in a legible and harmonious arrangement. The 5146 was produced in various precious metals, establishing itself as a core model within Patek Philippe's complicated watch collection for many years.
This particular iteration of the 5146 is presented in an 18k yellow gold case, measuring 39mm in diameter. It houses the self-winding Patek Philippe Caliber 324 S IRM QA LU, a movement known for its reliability and precision, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours. A domed sapphire crystal protects the dial, and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear but not for swimming or diving.
The reference 5146 appeals to collectors seeking a sophisticated daily wearable complication from Patek Philippe. Its annual calendar mechanism requires adjustment only once a year, at the end of February, offering practical convenience. The model was available with several dial variations and case materials throughout its production run, which concluded around 2020. The yellow gold variant with a silvery opaline dial offers a classic and understated presentation, aligning with traditional Patek Philippe aesthetics.
... as I think that a watch of this caliber has to be a piece of jewellery. The Nautilus is arguably an icon in the PP range, but it lacks the preciousness character too much. Not to say that it looks mundane but a bit too understated. The coloured gold PPs would be my choice as you have put them also on your list. That particular Lange that you have chosen does not look like a wrist watch at all to me and more like a yacht chronometer. It is also too big. The 5146 YG with slate grey dial would
well, I hope I can add some clarity to your mental debate sometimes you just need to hear it from someone else.. this decision needs to be right...its too much money to get wrong, I know I've done it before and lost ££££££ trying to get out of a bad decision The first thing...... forget other brands, your heart/head are craving a Patek this much is clear from your posts, even if you may not think yourself it was not this obvious so which one???? the 5170 is a masterpiece for sure, you would have
.... When you love somethings, but i mean really love, there is nothing you can hate about it Can't reason it why but here is a few reasons : 1- the incredible blue dial that plays with the light like no other dial 2- the bull's eye!! 3- Incredible details such as how the pushers are integrated 4- The metalic strap, which is one of the best IMO, great design, so light and comfortable. 5- It has the kind of understated beauty that grows on you, not the kind that jumps to your eyes, with a strong
5711 is like the foundation of the whole series and also the most affordable. I think if you like 5711 so much, you should focus on it and ONLY it. Forget about other brands and models, they come and go and you will always find an reason to look at 5711 again. I am a sucker of the Nautilus, I am fortunate to acquire few pieces and I wish my collection could narrow down to just Nautilus. Good luck.
you said one of the criteria was that you should be able to read it clearly in total darkness. Of the watches you pictured, only one does that and may barely be visible in total darkness. So I wonder if that is truly a must seeing the other pieces you gravitate towards. A design that doesn't make you look older than you are? The Gondolo is based on a design from the 20's or 30's, the current chronograph is a design from the 40's-50's, the Nautilus is from the 70's. I don't know much about Lange'
My 5711/1a has been my daily watch since I acquired it. The beauty of the piece is the subtle shades of the dial and the way the light dances around on it. Pictures really don't do it justice (I hope you've seen one in person). Also, the watch is extremely comfortable and is thin enough to easily fit under a dress shirt. I find it pretty accurate - I adjust it a couple of minutes every other month when I change the date. I'm curious why accuracy and hacking are so high on your list? Even the mos
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