GT3's 2016 post invites the WatchProSite community to share their favorite Patek Philippe Nautilus references, following the recent releases of the 5990A and 5711R. This article captures the vibrant discussion among collectors, exploring preferences across various Nautilus models, from the classic 5711A to more complicated references, and delves into the personal reasons behind each choice.
Dear fellow Purists,
After the release of the 5990A and the 5711R last year. My question is; did they live up to the expectations?
The year passed and most of us might have had the chance to get accustomed to the newcomers. Some of us were lucky enough to have them delivered. If that's not the case I bet many of us had the chance to admire them 'in the flesh' at a PP salon, shop or event, their AD or maybe a friend who owns it etc..
So here comes the question; What is your favorite Nautilus?
What about the classic 5711A?
Or is it the pure 5726A?
Is it the 5980A? Or is it the R, or AR version?
Or maybe the 5712? A, G or R?
or the rare 5711 in Platinum?
This may be a discussion topic we all talked about over and over again, but back then, there was no 5990 or 5711r yet.
The timing of this post is not entirely fortuitous. Tomorrow is my birthday and I decided it's time to get my favorite Nautilus.
Hopefully you guys like it as much as I do. But please don't hold back on your favorite and most importantly; why?
Looking very much forward to your replies.
Best,
H
p.s. Please don't hesitate to include some pictures in this topic! Ofcourse I will post some pics of my favorite when I have it.
About the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 5712
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5712 represents a 36mm iteration within the Royal Oak series, produced during the 1980-1990 period. This reference features a blue dial configuration paired with stainless steel construction throughout both case and bracelet.
The 36mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber 2121 movement, delivering a 40-hour power reserve. The watch incorporates a fixed octagonal bezel and sapphire crystal, with 50-meter water resistance. The integrated steel bracelet completes the stainless steel construction.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a vintage-production Royal Oak in the smaller 36mm case size. The blue dial variant offers an alternative to more common dial colors within the reference range. The decade-long production window from 1980-1990 places this reference within the early Royal Oak manufacturing period.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 2121
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 36 mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5726
The Patek Philippe Reference 5726 represents a significant milestone in the manufacture s annual calendar collection, combining the practical sophistication of an annual calendar with a sleek nautical aesthetic. Introduced as part of Patek Philippe s modern sports-elegant lineup, this reference demonstrates the brand s mastery in creating complicated timepieces that maintain everyday wearability. The 5726 builds upon Patek Philippe s rich heritage of calendar complications, offering collectors a contemporary interpretation of haute horlogerie that bridges the gap between dressy complications and contemporary sports watches.
At the heart of the Reference 5726 beats the exceptional Caliber 324 S QA LU 24H/303, an automatic movement that showcases Patek Philippe s technical prowess in calendar mechanisms. This sophisticated caliber features an annual calendar complication that automatically adjusts for months with 30 and 31 days, requiring manual correction only once per year at the end of February. The movement incorporates a 24-hour indication alongside the traditional calendar functions, displaying day, date, month, and moon phases through elegantly arranged subsidiary dials. The self-winding mechanism ensures consistent power delivery while maintaining the thin profile necessary for the watch s refined proportions.
The 40.5mm stainless steel case presents a contemporary interpretation of classic Patek Philippe design language, featuring clean lines and perfectly executed finishing that exemplifies the manufacture s attention to detail. The striking blue sunburst dial creates remarkable depth and luminosity, with its rich color serving as the foundation for the symmetrically arranged calendar displays. Protected by a sapphire crystal and featuring a fixed smooth bezel, the 5726 balances functionality with aesthetic refinement. For collectors, this reference represents an accessible entry point into Patek Philippe s complicated watch segment while offering the prestige and technical excellence associated with one of horology s most revered manufacturers. The combination of stainless steel construction, practical complications, and distinctive design elements positions the 5726 as a highly desirable piece for both seasoned collectors and those building their first serious watch collection.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 324 S QA LU 24H/303
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40.5 mm
- Dial
- Blue sunburst
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal
About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph Ref. 5980
The Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 5980 was introduced in 2006, marking a significant evolution for the Nautilus line by integrating a chronograph complication. This reference was notable for being the first Nautilus chronograph, presenting a sportier and more technically complex option within the collection. It maintained the distinctive porthole-inspired case design while adding a monopusher flyback chronograph function, consolidating the chronograph registers into a single sub-dial at 6 o'clock.
This reference features a 40.5 mm stainless steel case, characteristic of the Nautilus's robust yet refined aesthetic. It is powered by the self-winding caliber CH 28-520 C, an integrated flyback chronograph movement that operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 45-55 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 120 meters, underscoring its design as a luxury sports watch.
The 5980 appeals to collectors seeking a Nautilus with additional functionality beyond time and date. Its introduction expanded the model's appeal, offering a more intricate mechanical experience while retaining the core design elements. The blue-black gradient dial is a signature feature, contributing to its distinct visual identity. This reference was produced until 2014, making it a specific period piece within the broader Nautilus chronology.
Specifications
- Caliber
- CH 28-520 C
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40.5 mm
- Dial
- Blue-black gradient
- 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