Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A vs. 5712/1A

patekova · 2018-01-12T11:46:40Z

Compare Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A and 5712/1A. Explore collector preferences for complications, dial colors, and historical lineage.

patekova

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

26 replies11259 views6 photos

Patekova initiates a compelling comparison between two highly sought-after Patek Philippe Nautilus references, the 5711/1A and the 5712/1A. His post explores the aesthetic and horological distinctions, inviting the community to weigh in on the preferences for simplicity versus complication, and the appeal of different dial colors. This discussion offers valuable insights for collectors contemplating these iconic models.

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I will be happy to start. The 5711 seems to be a significantly more desired reference. While I can understand the reasons why: historical lineage dating back to 3700; elegant, sporty simplicity; and pure aesthetic preference for the uncluttered dial compared to what some consider the asymmetry of 5712 - I find the 5712 to be much more interesting visually, with its moon phase/date register and power reserve. Also the 5712 is virtually as thin and comfortable to wear as 5711 and has a wonderful (IMHO) complication and Patek at least for me is all about complications.

Regarding white vs blue/black 5711 dial, yes the blue/black is generally more desired, but the icey cool, bold white seems to be gaining ground. The blue/black is shimmeringly beautiful in daylight, but appears rather dark and less interesting at night. The white is fantastic in any light.

I would like to be able to rate the 3 in order of preference, but I can't since the 5712 is a relatively recent acquisition and I am not sure that even over time I will be able to do a rating that will remain my preference. The one thing I can say for certain, is that for me they are each very different in character from the other and I am thrilled to own the "set".

How do you feel about these 3 models compared to each other?

I look forward to reading your viewpoint.

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

Key Points from the Discussion

The 5711/1A blue dial is often preferred for its historical connection to the original 3700, while the silver-white dial offers dynamic color changes in varying light conditions.
While the 5711/1A's simplicity and lineage to the 3700 are appealing, the 5712/1A is often considered more interesting and retains wearer interest longer due to its complications and asymmetrical dial.
The 5712/1A's asymmetrical dial is one of the few that works effectively, and the 5711/1A, despite its beauty, can feel empty due to its large, uncluttered dial, especially as watch sizes have increased.
The 5711/1A in blue is a primary preference for many due to its dial color, simplicity, and historical lineage, with the white dial being a less commonly seen but appreciated alternative.
The 5711/1A offers practical advantages such as a screw-down crown and sweep seconds, which are not present in the 5712/1A, highlighting a trade-off between vintage aesthetics and modern functionality.

The Discussion

drphileasfogg

Jan 12, 2018

Love my 5712A

One of the few asymmetrical dial that works; although beautiful the 5711A has IMO a large dial that feels empty. As watches grew in size over the years, dials feel empty to me. Same with the Calatrava 5227, same with the AP RO hence I feel inclined to get the chrono. That say I like the 5711A white dial markers, the white/ blue contrast is great.

patekova

Jan 12, 2018

Thanks both for sharing your thoughts and the image of your 5712! [nt]

Clueless_Collector

Jan 12, 2018

Can’t really compare the 3 as each has its own merits...

Tiffany loves you 😁 Great collection of co-brand PP, I’m glad I made it to waiting list for the blue 5711, after knowing they have closed the order. Rgds Raymond

patekova

Jan 12, 2018

Thanks Raymond for the compliment! [nt]

Alkiro1

Jan 12, 2018

If I had to choose among these three Nautilus, I would go for the 5712 first (mainly because I like a lot its “messy” dial), then the 5711 with its blue dial and, finally, the 5711 with its white dial. But it’s my own choice and ranking of course

Best wishes Alkiro

patekova

Jan 12, 2018

Thanks Alkiro for your reply. Interesting that you rank 5712 #1. Makes total sense to me, although I suspect it may be a minority view. [nt]