Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 Acquisition

dr.kol · 2015-02-09T03:05:13Z

Explore dr.kol's challenging journey to acquire a Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711, comparing it with the AP Royal Oak 15202. Insights on collecting iconic Genta designs.

dr.kol

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

44 replies13247 views5 photos

dr.kol's journey to acquire a Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges collectors faced even in 2015 when pursuing highly sought-after timepieces. His candid account of navigating international dealers and the anticipation of a new acquisition resonates with the universal collector experience. This post also offers an early comparison between two iconic Genta designs: the Nautilus 5711 and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202.

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When I got my 15202 AP Royal Oak, I decided in January that I really need to get a Patek Nautilus 5711 - and a new one. I started to contact the most obvious places like London Salon from where I have bought a couple of watches. They did not even bother to reply... Geneva Salon put me to the list and I am very grateful for that.

I also contacted several AD around Europe, visited Patek Boutique in Singapore, called to US, etc. It seemed to be really difficult.

Finally I found a watch from another continent through an Italian trader. Fine, a bit more difficult and thus a bit more expensive but "let's do that" I thought. The Nautilus was sold by the AD on 15th January and it started its long voyage. The longest stop was in Rome where the watch was customs cleared and all taxes were paid.

Finally this morning the watch arrived via Paris and Helsinki to my home town Tallinn. I called FedEx as the first thing in the morning and promised to pick up the parcel myself.

I sat into my car and with semi shaking hands started to open the parcel.

Yeh, the watch looks like a Nautilus just arriving from the assembly line...

It was time to take my Royal Oak from the wrist and admire the creations of Gerald Genta side-by side.

Just checking that all the papers are filled like they should be and putting the watch into time.

Time to drive back home and tell the wife: "look what I found".

If you ask me which one I prefer: Nautilus 5711 or Royal Oak 15202 is pre-mature to say. I just had the Royal Oak on my wrist for 20 days and it was simply perfect. Soon Nautilus will be tested and in due course I can tell - in about one year.

The human mind is funny: I'm very happy just now but when arriving home one simple question started to circulate in my head: "What's next".

Have a good starting week everybody.

Best, Kari

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 Nautilus 5711 is praised for its simple elegance, mesmerizing dial, and 'smooth operator' bezel, often preferred over the Royal Oak's more angular design with visible screws.
The 5711 is admired for its inherent grace and class, a 'living art' dial, and its natural affinity for water without pretending to be a dive watch, making it an ideal active gentleman's timepiece.
The acquisition process for the 5711, though challenging, was relatively quick, taking only about three weeks from purchase to delivery, despite international shipping complexities.
The original Nautilus ref. 3700 is highlighted as a dream watch, featuring the same movement as the 15202 and the fantastic two-part case design by Gerald Genta.
The collector's 'What's next?' mentality, even after a significant acquisition, is a common trait among watch enthusiasts, often leading to considerations for other brands like Vacheron Constantin or Blancpain.
The 'horology bug' is described as a 'disease' with symptoms like blurred vision, quickness of breath, and 'open wallet syndrome,' humorously capturing the passion of collecting.

The Discussion

amanico

Feb 9, 2015

Do you ask the seller if the battery is new? :)

dr.kol

Feb 9, 2015

I ill buy JLC later -

then I'll ask. Anyhow, it's always a pleasure getting a Virgin. Best, Kari

amanico

Feb 9, 2015

Don't forget to check the papers before! ;) [nt]

dr.kol

Feb 9, 2015

Nico, I will remember this one...

And yes, the papers were printed before the purchase was stamped. The CoO was stamped on 15th January and everything till now looks like real. Best, Kari

Clueless_Collector

Feb 9, 2015

LOL, Nico, good one. I am willing to settle for a battery one if workmanship like this :) [nt]

geross

Feb 9, 2015

its bloody beautiful

its perfect on your wrist kari. your a true conousier in fine watches. i like your taste. best geross