Patek Philippe 5711 Service Bracelet Issue
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Patek Philippe 5711 Service Bracelet Issue

By radone · Dec 4, 2019 · 31 replies
radone
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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Radone shares a concerning experience with Patek Philippe's service center after an 'ultra complete overhaul' of his 2008 Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A. This post highlights critical issues regarding parts replacement policies, communication breakdowns, and the impact on a watch's originality and collectability, sparking a vital discussion among collectors about brand service practices.

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I decided to bring it to a like new condition, opting for a bracelet replacement also. The 11 yo one was slightly used and I am a "maniac" 

Many reasons for joy BUT...unfortunately it involves a "but" and I would like to hear your opinions on how big is this "but" because I have never heard or seen anything similar.

My 2008 5711 1A had an old style bracelet, with screws. Besides, when I sent it for the revision, I did not know that I might decide to change the bracelet and it had an optional 1 1/2 link on it.

Without any reference on the price for the replacement, it was steep, I encountered the following surprising situations:

- they refused to return the old bracelet (I can accept that, hardly, but I can)

- they changed it with the new style bracelet, with pins, that was introduced only after some years ( impossible to tolerate)

- they did not return the extra link for which I paid 300 CHF, nor included a suitable one for the pin bracelet ( impossible to understand unless they introduced a suitable one on the new bracelet)

I believe that the integrity and collectability of my 2008 watch has been voided by the manufacturer itself and I would have never expected that from Patek or any other brand that has TRADITION among its key communication concepts. I would have mentioned that I wanted it replaced with the same style but simply could not imagine that this could EVER happen.

Obviously, I noticed that the bracelet was different only after I broke the service seals.

What would you do? Would you accept it as such considering that it was done by Patek themselves and only ask for the suitable 1 1/2 link? Would you insist on having the right bracelet with the sacrifice of not having the watch for another few months?

Do you have any similar stories, is this a regular practice?

PS. Thank God they did not change the dial!!!








About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711

The Patek Philippe reference 5711/1A-011, part of the Complications collection, is distinguished by its white dial, offering a different aesthetic compared to other dial variations within the 5711 series. This particular configuration provides a clean and legible presentation, appealing to collectors who prefer a more understated yet refined look. It represents a specific iteration of a well-known Patek Philippe model, recognized for its integrated design.

The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 26-330 SC movement. This movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 120 meters. The fixed bezel and integrated bracelet are characteristic elements of its construction.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in the evolution of Patek Philippe's offerings, particularly those seeking specific dial colors within established model lines. Its production run from 2019 to 2021 marks it as a relatively recent, yet now discontinued, variant. The watch's specifications align with Patek Philippe's standards for mechanical timepieces.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal.26-330 SC
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
White
Water Resist.
120m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
SH
shortys home
Dec 4, 2019

... if they charge you the full price of a new bracelet they have to return the old one. If it was a lower „replacement price“ not returning the old bracelet is absolutely understandable. They should have informed you that the new bracelet is of a different style (pins vs screws). They obviously did not notice that your old bracelet had a 1 1/2 link. If they don’t offer a new 1 1/2 link fitting the new bracelet they should at least return the old one, even it was a „replacement price“. The integ

RA
Rapwatch
Dec 4, 2019

Totally unacceptable in my view. That is not the original spec of the watch. Pins. Yuk. I'm with you, this is why I have no interest in Nautilus since. The other issues are unacceptable too. It's all your property. Just get a Lange. Much better attention. I think PP are just too bloated and arrogant. Rapwatch

PA
patrick_y
Dec 4, 2019

A Patek Philippe Service Consultant should thoroughly explain the difference. 1. An email or phone call should've explained why they recommended a bracelet replacement. 2. If a bracelet replacement is requested or approved by the buyer, then Patek Philippe Service should explain that all you get is a new bracelet. You don't get your 1.5 link using screws. And that the new bracelet is not compatible with your old 1.5 link. 3. I can understand they won't give you back your old bracelet. All of the

SP
Spangles - Dr. Tabby
Dec 4, 2019

Which is not a defense of PP, which has had, at least as far as I have seen online, many more issues.

SP
Spangles - Dr. Tabby
Dec 4, 2019

A little serious in the question (which could be made of most brands) although I understand it could be seen as inflammatory, that is not my intention (and apologies to all). It seems that this happens regularly and that a good piece of advice would be to cultivate a relationship with a skilled independent watchmaker and have all possible service done with him/her before relying on PP itself. Of course, not all service is possible this way, but at least it is a good starting practice.

ST
Stylophile
Dec 4, 2019

This situation would be totally unacceptable!! I am not sure if you have any recourse here

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