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Dje's original post provocatively compares the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A to a Rolls-Royce, challenging common perceptions of both luxury and 'tool' watches. His reflection on the 5711/1A's understated elegance and the personal journey to appreciating its design offers a timeless perspective on acquiring a grail watch. This article explores why the 5711/1A, despite its initial subtle appeal, became a highly coveted piece among collectors.
If you read only my title you
may have two opportunities to miss the truth about this watch.
The Patek
Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A is a watch, not a car or a tool! But you know that!
I do the
comparison with a Rolls-Royce and you may take it for a watch for old
chauffeured people. You're wrong!
When I write
Rolls-Royce I think quality, aim of perfection, reliability, grand style,
extreme luxury, (spirit of) ecstasy. I think about the current Phantom, or even
more about a Phantom II Continental drophead by Gurney Nutting or a
"simpler" Silver Cloud 2 drophead by HJ Mulliner. Imagine those
supremely classical designs that exudes the highest refinement, a style at the
same time understated and sublime.
Whatever
perfect the Nautilus 5711/1A is, it will never be noticed as easily and as
often as a Rolex Submariner. It will remain a rare watch rarely identified out
of the circle of the watch nuts.
In fact I have
to admit that I rarely got appealed by this watch until I put one on my wrist.
The day I tried on Amanico's 5712 it was a real blow! I then tried on a
5980 and was once again appealed. The pure design and simplicity of the
5711/1A was even stronger on me. Wait until you try one yourself!
Patek Philippe 5711/1A
The other
opportunity of mistake is the tool side. I must explain what I define as a tool
watch. I'm not thinking of a watch for plumbing or mining. I'm just
searching a watch for a normal everyday life, for accepting a ride on a speed
boat or an afternoon of sail fishing. I need a watch to spend some time under
the rain, to fall (helped or not) into a swimming pool.
I hope a watch
that you can forget on your wrist.
Perfectly integrated bracelet
I'm
pretty sure a Nautilus 5711/1A can do all that.
Obviously many
other watches could. But which other watch would be so thin, so refined, so
unique?
Which other
watch would show the time on a so subtle dial of different shades of blue?
Which other
watch would embody so humbly all the Geneva
watchmaking experience and excellence?
A dial of blue shades
Let's end
on this aspect. This watch is not just all I wrote so far, it is also above all
the case for an automatic watch calibre. I'm not too appealed by gold
watches but I'm so appealed by gold rotors under steel watches….
Don't you
think that our modern lives necessitate a strong case to protect a very refined
engine?
The 324 calibre
is now well known and shared by many Calatrava references. What other kind of
calibre would you hope to see in such kind of everyday living life watch?
You may not
dare drive a Rolls-Royce but would you refrain from wearing such a watch?
The one
I'm in
love !
Cheers
Dje
ps : share
your pics please.
The Patek Philippe Complications Reference 5712 is a notable offering within the brand's Complications collection, distinguished by its asymmetrical dial layout and a suite of practical indications. It presents a sophisticated blend of functionality and design, offering a moon phase, power reserve indicator, and an analog date display, all arranged to create a distinctive visual identity that sets it apart from more traditional Patek Philippe designs.
This particular reference features a stainless steel case measuring 40 mm in diameter, housing the self-winding caliber 240 PS IRM C LU. This movement is known for its slim profile, achieved through the integration of a micro-rotor, contributing to the watch's comfortable wearability. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 60 meters, with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
For collectors, the 5712 represents an accessible entry into Patek Philippe's complicated timepieces, offering a range of functions without the complexity of a perpetual calendar or chronograph. Its stainless steel construction and integrated bracelet provide a robust and versatile option, appealing to those seeking a daily wearable complicated watch. The reference has been in production since 2006, with the 5712/1A denoting the stainless steel bracelet variant.
I took it with me in the Seaside, in the Country, at some gatherings, and even on a roof... Like you, I had to see it in the flesh before being convinced. Like you, its dial captivated me. Like you, I'm thinking about adding another one in my collection, a 5711 or a 5980, as I tried this last reference a lot of times, lastly, and I'm more and more convinced by its elegant " bad boy " allure...Macho, still elegant. I would very well see you with a Nauty Lus! Best, my friend. Nicolas This message
This is probably the most poetic review...... The funny thing is that I was thinking pretty much on these lines a few days ago...... when I placed my order for one.... whether it comes sooner or later.... it matters not so much..... as it is a timeless one..... cheers
The first time I saw the 5711/1A in a Patek catalogue a few years ago, I wasn't interested. But then I decided I wanted a "Rolls Royce" (as you say) to wear as a daily watch that would not bring undue attention to itself at work or in public. This was my ultimate choice. Indeed, this can be worn with a polo shirt and no-one will usually notice it. Perfect for the intended purpose. And not afraid of water. In fact the AD did not have the 5711/1A in store when I went but he was wearing one. I knew
I am glad for you that you found a PP for PP. I look forward to seeing it on your wrist. respo
Then a 5711 1a, the 5711 is the one watch I would keep if I wanted to have only one. Its perfect.
as always, wonderful photos, always enjoyable... but puh-leeeease!!! A tool watch??? That Nauty Lus (funny Nicolas) is a dress watch in sportswatch clothing... I owned one, so I can say it. A lovely watch... pretty cool. But a TOOL WATCH!!!!???? Okay I'm done.
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