Patek Philippe Watches: A Spotlight on the Iconic Nautilus Collection

Synonymous with eternal style and unparalleled craftsmanship, Patek Philippe watches are the epitome of luxury. The Nautilus, with its distinctive porthole-inspired design, made an immediate impact on the Patek Philippe brand and has since become one of the most coveted luxury sports watches in the world. Let’s delve into the exploration of horological superiority by placing a spotlight on the iconic Patek Philippe Nautilus collection.

Patek Philippe, a name that resonates with connoisseurs and collectors alike, has been crafting masterpieces since 1839. Established in Geneva, Switzerland, the brand embodies the essence of Swiss watchmaking tradition. With a commitment to uncompromising quality and innovation, Patek Philippe watches are synonymous with exclusivity and refinement.

Each Patek Philippe timepiece is a manifestation of the brand’s dedication to excellence. From the intricate movements to the exquisite details of the case and dial, every element is crafted to perfection.

With the success of Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, Patek knew it was time to develop an exclusive sports watch of their own. The target was represented by dynamic business managers of the new generations. Luckily for Patek, Gerald Genta (the designer of the Royal Oak himself) jumped in at the opportunity to design a watch for Patek.

Genta explains, “I was at the restaurant of a hotel and some people from Patek were sitting in one corner of the dining hall, while I was sitting alone in the other corner. I told the head waiter, ‘Bring me a piece of paper and a pencil, I want to design something,’ and I designed the Nautilus while observing the people from Patek eating! It was a sketch that I completed in five minutes.”

Enter the Patek Philippe Nautilus collection, a series of watches that seamlessly marries sophistication with a hint of sporty flair. Launched in 1976, the Nautilus originally cost $3,100. Today, reference #5711/1A-018 Tiffany & Co. is the most expensive Nautilus, retailing at $6.5 million.

The name comes from the fictional submarine in Jules Verne’s novels Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. The iconic porthole design of the Nautilus, inspired by transatlantic ocean liners, adds a touch of nautical charm to the collection. The bezel, often adorned with a subtle touch of diamonds, further elevates the watch’s elegance without compromising its sporty character.

Designer Gerald Genta was inspired by the shape of a porthole. The octagonal bezel of the watch is secured by four lateral screws to ensure water resistance. The fully integrated bracelet with a folding clasp contributes to the character of the popular watch.

The interplay of polished and satin-brushed surfaces creates a visual symphony that captures the essence of understated luxury. The gently rounded corners of the case soften the overall aesthetic, ensuring that the Nautilus is not just a sports watch but a refined statement piece.

Beneath the mesmerizing exterior of the Nautilus beats the heart of Patek Philippe’s renowned mechanical movements. The collection includes both automatic and manual-winding calibres, each meticulously crafted to ensure precision and reliability. The transparent casebacks of certain Nautilus models offer a captivating view of the movements, inviting enthusiasts to witness the mechanical poetry within.

The original Nautilus, reference #3700/1 was produced in stainless steel with a 28-255 C calibre. It’s 42 mm case ensured the nickname ‘Jumbo’, as the timepiece was considered large back in 1976. The Nautilus for Ladies was introduced in 1980, a thinner and lighter version of the original. Reference #3712, a triple complication, was created in 2005; this timepiece featured a power reserve indicator, an analog date, and a moonphase.

The Nautilus Travel Time Chronograph added a dual time function in 2014, and the first Nautilus featuring a perpetual calendar complication was introduced in 2018. To celebrate the 170th Anniversary of Patek Philippe and Tiffany & Co.’s partnership, Patek presented the Nautilus 5711/1A-018. Limited Edition to 170 pieces, this timepiece was stainless steel with the Tiffany stamp on the dial. One of the watches sold at a New York Watch Auction for $6.5 million, providing the collections continuously growing popularity.

Nautilus watches are on the pricier side for many reasons. As Patek Philippe continues to define the pinnacle of horological excellence, the brand remains committed to honoring its rich heritage. The future promises new chapters in the brand’s history with advancements in materials, movements, and models. This ensures that the brand remains at the forefront of luxury watchmaking. The rarity of certain Patek Philippe models, especially limited edition and vintage pieces, makes them highly sought after by collectors. Certain models command prices that far exceed their original retail value.

Patek Philippe has a tradition of embracing cutting-edge materials while maintaining the highest standards of value. The brand’s commitment to technical innovation ensures that Patek Philippe watches are not just fashionable accessories but lasting investments.

The brand is also celebrated for its mastery of complications. From perpetual calendars that account for leap years to celestial complications that track the movements of the stars, they have everything could want in a timepiece. As with every complication on a luxury watch, the attention to detail and hand-crafted dedication further solidifies the Nautilus collection’s high-ranking status. Owning a Patek Philippe Nautilus becomes a mark of personal accomplishment and a connection to a heritage that spans generations.

The Nautilus seamlessly adapts from the boardroom to the yacht deck, from formal events to weekend getaways. From the sea to the city, the model’s versatility makes it an outstanding companion for both formal and casual occasions. The combination of steel and precious metals in certain models adds a touch of glamour and ensures that the Nautilus is as at home in a gala as it is on a seaside retreat.

The Nautilus also can seamlessly blend sporty aesthetics with graceful design. The integrated bracelet enhances the watch’s cohesive look. It’s a watch that embodies the duality of comfort and performance, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both. With celebrities such as Drake, Brat Pitt, Jay-Z, and Victoria Beckham sporting the model, you’ll feel like a star the moment you snap the clap shut on your wrist.

Owning a Patek is a symbol of success and achievement. The brand’s advertising slogan of ‘You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation,’ speaks to the timeless and heirloom quality of these watches. A Patek Philippe is a legacy to be passed down through generations.

The most sought-after Patek Philippe Nautilus is undeniably the 5711/1A. Renowned for its iconic blue dial, it has a horizontally embossed pattern and an octagonal bezel made of stainless steel. Its scarcity in the market, coupled with its beloved porthole shape elevates the 5711/1A to a status of desirability. With a waiting list that rivals its reputation, this Nautilus stands as a testament to Patek Philippe’s commitment to creating enduring works of art.

At Avi & Co., we are able to source those hard-to-find, most sought-after Patek Philippe Nautilus’. We source timepieces worldwide from the most reputable vendors and trusted sources that we have worked with for 10+ years. If you are seeking a watch that you don’t see on our website or our boutique shelves, we take on the process. We have a long track record of success sourcing rare and limited edition pieces. We provide a hassle-free experience by vetting the sources and authenticating the timepieces.

If you are ready to add a Nautilus to your watch collection, our sales executives will work with you until it’s safely wrapped around your wrist.

If you need a Nautilus without the wait, let Avi & Co. be your destination for luxury. The secondary market is a viable source for collectors to buy or sell discontinued or rare watches. We have a vast selection of Patek Philippe watch models, including other luxury brands such as Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex.

Obtaining a Patek Philippe Nautilus can be challenging. The production of Nautilus watches is limited. This factor combined with a high demand from consumers creates a competitive market. The brand values its relationship with its clients, and patrons with a history of purchasing Patek Philippe watches may be given priority when new Nautilus models are released. The secondary market allows you to purchase a timepiece without the luxury market rules. At Avi & Co., you are paying for the convenience and the immediacy of owning what you desire.

Our boutiques in New York and Miami have a large variety of the iconic octagonal bezels ready to be taken home as early as today. From 18K white gold or rose gold, date functions and chronographs, we have a timepiece for everyone in a size to suit all preferences. Browse through some of our top choices:

Patek Philippe watches and their iconic Nautilus collection at the forefront represents the zenith of artistry. Beyond their function as timekeeping instruments, Patek Philippe watches are symbols of success and enduring investments. Secure your place in the iconic world of luxury watches with a Nautilus from Avi & Co. We look forward to expanding your watch collection with a legend.