Patek Philippe Rare & Discontinued Models Collection
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Patek Philippe Rare & Discontinued Models Collection

By Robert65 · Jan 29, 2026 · 16 replies
Robert65
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
16 replies3389 views2 photos
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Robert65's candid reflection on a coveted Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980/1AR offers a rare glimpse into the emotional journey of luxury watch collecting. His experience, from intense desire to eventual clarity, provides valuable insight into how collectors navigate the allure of scarcity versus the pursuit of horological harmony within their personal collections. This post underscores the importance of thoughtful acquisition over impulsive desire, even when faced with an unexpected opportunity.

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Already blessed with the 5712/1A, I visited my Patek AD in Charlotte, North Carolina and was shown the 5980/1AR. I never expected to see a 5980 because I thought they were long discontinued.  I was smitten and it's a gorgeous piece. Comparing them side by side I thought "I desperately need this additional Nautilus!"  So I lobbied my sales associate with a full charm campaign for weeks.  Then I had to work in Qatar for several months so I continued to charm him from afar the whole time I was gone.  I actually prayed for this watch while I was in the Middle East and I promise I'm not a religious man.  

Maybe it was my positive interpretation of my SA's texts but I was nearly 100% sure that he would offer me the 5980 when I returned home from the wars! LOL.  I steadily texted him once per week with upbeat, friendly messages.  When I got back to the States and my wife and I visited the boutique I was gently let down and fully disappointed (though I tried hard to be gracious) when he said he offered it to another long time, loyal client.  The 1.5 hour drive home from the AD was emotional for both me and my wife.  However within the next couple months and lots of soul-searching I realized that the major reason I lusted and prayed for that watch was because it was simply visible at the AD and I held it in my hands.  

The watch that I really needed in my tiny collection at that point was a (somewhat understated) gold dress watch - not another sport watch.  I ended up purchasing exactly what my collection needed and I absolutely adore it (5170R-001).

When I look back at this foto and I remember my emotions... the first feeling is a little bit of shame of desperately wanting something for no particular reason.  The second feeling is thank goodness for unanswered prayers.

Best,
Robert





About the Patek Philippe 5712 Ref. 5712

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.

Specifications

Caliber
240 PS IRM C LU
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
60m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
QU
quattro
Jan 29, 2026

I love your honesty and how you managed to free yourself from a desire which was conditioned instead of being free and enlightened. Your reference 5170 is simply splendid! Wear it in the best of health. Best, Emmanuel

RO
Robert65
Jan 29, 2026

Writing in a brutally honest and forthcoming way helps me realize my mistakes and hopefully I learn from them. Best, Robert

TE
TeutonicCarFan
Jan 29, 2026

That being said, the 5170 is WAY better than the nautilus. I love the design and dial and breguet numerals. I imagine the movements operates super nicely , too. 🍻

ZS
ZSHSZ
Jan 29, 2026

The 5170R is a nice reference!

AR
ArmisT
Jan 29, 2026

The 5980/1Ar is discontinued…so that is interesting he had that on hand. Regardless, I’m sorry you didn’t get it, but I respect and appreciate your reflection on the event and how these material things can play with our emotions. Thank you for sharing that since we can all benefit from such reflection.🙏🏽

RO
Robert65
Jan 29, 2026

Thank you for the vote of confidence on my 5170 choice. The movement is intoxicating!

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