The Ageless Icon
Some say that men age like wine, and so does, it seems, the Nautilus timepiece by Patek Philippe. As the icon turns 40 this year, it can confidently revel in its long-held position at the top. Shedding the old stainless steel case of the original Ref. 3700/1A from 1976, the new Ref. 5711/1P marks this milestone anniversary by suiting up in a handsome case of platinum and a solid 18k gold dial dipped in dapper navy blue. Admittedly, age has added a little girth to the Nautilus and it now measures 44mm instead of the more svelte 42mm of its younger days.
But the timepiece has always been a large one; even at 42mm, it was considered big for what was fashionable during the ‘70s, and was affectionately nicknamed “Jumbo” by collectors. At 44mm today, it exudes an even more imposing presence on the wrist. Completing the new look are hour markers of white baguette-cut diamonds. Just above six o’clock, a subtle engraving reading ‘40’ and ‘1976 – 2016’ reveals to only close observers the significant lineage of this timepiece, released in a limited edition of just 700 pieces worldwide.
40 years has not slowed the Nautilus down. The Ref. 5711/1P is powered by the self-winding 324 S C calibre, which gives the watch a daily deviation of just -3 to +2 seconds, an accuracy better than even the official benchmark imposed on chronometers. Through the transparent case back, the wearer can admire the heavy 21k gold rotor. Each timepiece is delivered in a special edition box of brown natural cork that resembles the original Nautilus box of 1976.
