In the wake of the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A's discontinuation, forum member patekova initiated a timely survey to gauge community sentiment on their favorite 'regular production' Nautilus models. This article synthesizes the diverse opinions and expert insights shared by collectors, offering a valuable perspective on the enduring appeal and varied preferences within the iconic Nautilus line. Patekova's original post, highlighting the 5990/1A, serves as the foundation for this exploration into what makes a Nautilus truly exceptional in the eyes of its most ardent admirers.
I thought it might be an appropriate time and fun exercise to take a survey and find out which “regular production” Nautilus is the favorite among the forum members. To keep the playing field level, I have limited the survey to regular production watches, thus excluding limited edition and limited production watches. Included in the survey are all models starting with the the 3700 up to and including all current models, in any metal or combination of metals. Including images and why your favorite is tops for you would be most interesting and appreciated.
I will be happy to start. My favorite is the 5990 1/A for the following reasons. For me the essence of Patek is complications. In the 5990 you get a dual time zone watch with dual day night indicators for local and home times, a fly back chronograph, the center hand of which can be run continuously as a seconds hand without harming the mechanism, a beautifully colored and symmetrical dial with the unusual feature of the 2 registers being at 12 and 6 (rather than 3 and 9). It has the heft and size of a sports watch, yet it is quite comfortable to wear. For a sporty/sports watch I think steel is the ideal metal. My impression is that it is much rarer than 5711 and I like that it is a bit under the radar (although I think that may change with the introduction of the rose gold version). Bottom line, I love this watch and never tire of wearing it.
I look forward to reading what your favorites are and why and seeing beautiful images.
Best, Patekova
About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Jumbo Ref. 3700
The Patek Philippe reference 3700 is recognized as the original Nautilus model. It established the distinctive porthole-inspired case design and integrated bracelet that define the collection. This reference was produced for a significant period, laying the foundation for subsequent Nautilus iterations and solidifying its place in the brand's sports watch offerings.
This reference features a stainless steel case measuring 42 mm in diameter and 7.6 mm in thickness, fitted with a sapphire crystal. It houses the self-winding Caliber 28-20 C, which provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is water-resistant to 120 meters and typically presents with a blue dial, offering a date complication.
The 3700 appeals to collectors interested in the foundational pieces of significant watch lines. It represents the initial vision for the Nautilus, preceding later mid-size and complicated versions. Its production run from 1976 to 1990 saw various dial and bracelet configurations, making specific examples of interest to those studying the model's evolution.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 28-20 C
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 42 mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 5711
The Patek Philippe Complications reference 5711/1A is a specific configuration within the Complications model line. This particular reference is identified by its serial number 5914840, with a movement number 6084863.
The watch is presented in a stainless steel case, indicated by the "/1A" suffix. No specific details regarding the crystal material or movement architecture are provided.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Patek Philippe Complications model in stainless steel. Its specific serial and movement numbers are documented for identification purposes.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 26-330 S C
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Blue, White
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time Chronograph Ref. 5990
Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time Chronograph Reference 5990
The reference 5990 represents Patek Philippe's combination of travel time and chronograph functions within the Nautilus collection. This stainless steel variant features a blue dial configuration, positioning it as a sports complication piece within the brand's portfolio during its 2014-2018 production period.
The 40.5mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber CH 28-520 C FUS movement, delivering 45-55 hours of power reserve. Technical specifications include sapphire crystal protection, 120-meter water resistance, and a smooth bezel design. The watch is completed with a stainless steel bracelet matching the case material.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking dual complications in a steel sports watch format. The blue dial variant offers color distinction within the 5990 series, while the four-year production window establishes its position as a limited-period offering. The combination of travel time and chronograph functions targets users requiring both timing and dual time zone capabilities.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CH 28-520 C FUS
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40.5 mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
