Patek Philippe 5711/1A Nautilus Discontinuation

Key Points from the Discussion

• The Nautilus, particularly the 5711, often looks better in photographs than it feels in person, and its immense popularity has, in a way, shielded Patek Philippe's more traditional 'enthusiast' dress watches from mainstream fashion distractions.
• Discontinuation of a highly desirable model like the 5711, while still enjoying long waitlists, is a bold move. The author suggests Patek Philippe might have considered a temporary halt in production or limiting it to precious metals, similar to how the 5131 enamel dial World Time was perceived as more exclusive before the introduction of the 5231.
• Many rumors circulating about Patek Philippe reference changes around this time of year are often inaccurate, even from seemingly credible sources like ADs or lower-level employees, as official decisions can change until the final announcement.
• The financial gains from a skyrocketing watch like the 5711 are often exaggerated; when annualized, they may not significantly outperform other investments. The watch itself, with its 'flimsy' bracelet and 'boring' movement, is seen by some as a product of 'hollow hype' that doesn't live up to Patek Philippe's expected standards.
• The continuation of enamel dial World Time watches with the 5231, rather than limiting them to sporadic limited editions, is a positive development that makes rare handcrafts more accessible to new collectors while maintaining low production numbers.
• The 5711 had been in production since 2006, leading some owners to grow tired of the model and look forward to its replacement.
• Paying a significant premium for a discontinued model, especially one likely to be replaced by an improved version (e.g., with an upgraded clasp), is questionable, as waiting for the new reference might be more prudent.
• Patek Philippe often replaces discontinued models with new references, as seen with the 3940 to 5140, and 3700 to 5711. A new movement would likely result in a new reference number, ensuring there will always be a highly sought-after Nautilus.