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.

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 Nautilus Ref. 5711

The Patek Philippe reference 5711/1A-011, part of the Complications collection, is distinguished by its white dial, offering a different aesthetic compared to other dial variations within the 5711 series. This particular configuration provides a clean and legible presentation, appealing to collectors who prefer a more understated yet refined look. It represents a specific iteration of a well-known Patek Philippe model, recognized for its integrated design.

The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 26-330 SC movement. This movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 120 meters. The fixed bezel and integrated bracelet are characteristic elements of its construction.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in the evolution of Patek Philippe's offerings, particularly those seeking specific dial colors within established model lines. Its production run from 2019 to 2021 marks it as a relatively recent, yet now discontinued, variant. The watch's specifications align with Patek Philippe's standards for mechanical timepieces.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal.26-330 SC

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: 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

dr.kol

Feb 9, 2015

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

geross

Feb 9, 2015

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

dr.kol

Feb 9, 2015

but in the end, it's just a very basic Nautilus 5711. Best, Kari

Ancienne Le Brassus

Feb 9, 2015

Thanks for sharing this! It's really a beauty and I can see the draw of having the two GG's side by side!!!! wonderful!!! I hope you shower us with more pix!! HAGW, S

dr.kol

Feb 9, 2015

when you said "it's really beautiful". I agree but which one? By the way; isn't it easy to see that all four are siblings? Best, Kari

GLau

Feb 9, 2015

...enjoy being a "father" non-stop !! LOL !! This Nautilus baby is iconic, possesses simple elegance and has a mesmerizing dial. BTW, how do you compare the blue hue of the Nautilus vs the Royal Oak under different lighting?? Overall, I prefer the Nautilus over its Royal Oak sibling because its bezel exude "smooth operator" whereas RO is a bit too much to me with the screws and angles. Eagerly awaiting your report in due course. Meanwhile, enjoy all your GG "babies" !! Cheers, Gordon

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Patek Philippe forum with 44 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum