Patek Philippe Cubitus 5821/1A: Controversial Design

patekova · 2026-02-18T19:25:50Z

Explore the Patek Philippe Cubitus 5821/1A: a deep dive into its controversial design, wearability, and collector reception. Is this steel Patek a future classic?

patekova

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

58 replies5678 views1 photos

Patekova's journey with the Patek Philippe Cubitus 5821/1A offers a compelling look into how a watch can defy initial perceptions and win over a collector. This article explores the nuances of Patek Philippe's controversial steel Cubitus, delving into its design, wearability, and market position through the lens of an enthusiast's evolving appreciation. Patekova's detailed account provides a valuable starting point for understanding this distinctive reference within the broader Patek Philippe catalog.

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yet pleasantly familiar. But I was turned off a bit by its reported 45mm size ( especially having a small 6.5”/16.5 cm wrist) and it generally seemed to fall considerably short compared to the iconic 5711. I also felt that perhaps a bolder and more colorful dial would work even better (eg like the blue dial on the 2 tone version). I was definitely feeling luke warm until I tried it on.

I liked it including the dial color. I tried it on a second time and I liked it a lot. I tried it on a third time and I loved it.

It did not wear that large at all. I found its wearing size similar to 5711. I loved that it is square ish. The relatively small and round movement didn’t bother me at all. Historically I noted Patek’s use of round movements in square watches . I found the watch including the bracelet super comfortable to wear.

Do I think it is as good or better, whatever that means, compared to 5711. I don’t think of it in those terms. For me Cubitus despite the obvious similarities to 5711 occupies its own lane. If I become an owner will I like it as much as 5711? Only time will tell. I hope to be able to put that to the test.

(When I tried on the later 40mm variants, they seemed relatively small and less appealing compared to both 5821/1A and 5711.)

So I am definitely smitten. I wonder how others feel about the steel Cubitus, particularly those fortunate members who are owners and/or have had the experience of wearing it.

How do you feel overall about the steel Cubitus? What do you like and what do you dislike?

Best, Patekova

Credit: Patek Website

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

Key Points from the Discussion

The reported 45mm size of the Cubitus 5821/1A is misleading; it wears significantly smaller, comparable to a 41mm Audemars Piguet Royal Oak or a Patek Philippe 5711, making it suitable for smaller wrists.
For the Cubitus to achieve classic status and differentiate itself from the Nautilus or Aquanaut, it needs unique complications or material executions, such as a full tantalum case, a true dive watch functionality, or exclusive métiers d'art dials.
The decision to acquire a watch, especially one with an unconventional design like the Cubitus, often hinges on personal wrist experience, as initial impressions from photos can be deceiving.
Despite its unique design, some collectors feel the Cubitus's aesthetic is too derivative of the Nautilus, lacking the original refinement and significance that Gérald Genta infused into the iconic reference.
The 5821/1A's green dial, similar to the highly sought-after final run of the 5711/1A, is a significant draw for many collectors, further enhancing its appeal despite its 'small' 45mm wearability.
Personal preference for square watches is highly subjective, and while some appreciate the Cubitus's form factor, others find its proportions unusual or prefer the 40mm variants, even if they feel too small.

The Discussion

christianch

Feb 18, 2026

yes! looks amazing in person 👏

patekova

Feb 18, 2026

Thanks for sharing your experience with it.

Feb 18, 2026

A huge fail IMO

I tried it out in-person and disliked it a lot. I am not a huge Nautilus fan either though and strongly prefer the Royal Oak. I think the other big turn off here were the comments made by the CEO about the design being "all him" etc. That is not something any founder or high caliber CEO would say. You should ALWAYS praise your team and give them all the credit. Reeks of nepobaby... The only Patek I am interested in now is largely neovintage stuff like the 3970 and 3940. I hope the next generatio

patekova

Feb 18, 2026

A big thank you for your detailed, honest, non-filtered and very interesting reply!

MCG (Markus)

Feb 19, 2026

Totally agree! Unfortunately.

brauner

Feb 18, 2026

New but old fashioned IMO. Don't like.