A Modern Horological Legend

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A is one of the most recognisable and coveted watches of the 21st century. First introduced in the mid-2000s, it was the purest modern expression of Gérald Genta’s 1976 Nautilus design—a watch that redefined the idea of a luxury sports timepiece.

Slim, elegant, and versatile, the 5711 quickly became a cornerstone of contemporary watch collecting. When Patek Philippe announced its discontinuation in 2021, it moved from “must-have” to “modern legend” almost overnight.

Design & Craftsmanship

The charm of the 5711 lies in its understated perfection.

• Case: A 40 mm stainless steel case with distinctive “porthole” construction. At just over 8 mm thick, it wears exceptionally slim for a sports watch.
• Bracelet: Integrated steel bracelet with brushed and polished finishing that reflects light beautifully.
• Dial: The subtle horizontal embossing, warm sunburst tones, and refined indices—remains one of the most admired dials in modern watchmaking.
• Movement: Inside beats the Caliber 324 S C, an automatic movement known for reliability, elegance, and Patek’s hallmark finishing.
• Practicality: A water resistance rating of 120 m ensures it is as functional as it is refined.

This fusion of luxury and sportiness—steel construction paired with haute horology finishing—is what set the Nautilus apart from its inception.

The Collectability Factor

Part of the 5711/1A’s allure comes from its perfect balance of accessibility and exclusivity:

• Stainless steel luxury: When introduced, steel was an unusual choice for a flagship Patek Philippe. It gave the watch an air of casual sophistication that appealed to collectors.
• Limited availability: With notoriously tight production numbers, demand always outstripped supply—even before the discontinuation.
• Discontinuation effect: When Patek Philippe ceased production in 2021, the 5711 instantly transformed from a current model to a modern classic, securing its place in watch collecting history.

Beyond the Numbers

While its secondary-market prices often dominate the conversation, what truly sets the 5711 apart is its cultural presence:

• Celebrity Endorsement: From athletes to musicians, the 5711 became the discreet symbol of success.
• Design Influence: Its popularity sparked renewed interest in integrated-bracelet sports watches, influencing designs from Audemars Piguet to Tudor.
• Cultural Moment: Special editions, such as the Tiffany & Co.–signed version, made headlines not only in watch circles but also in mainstream media, cementing the Nautilus in pop culture.

Demand & Pricing Evolution

The 5711’s story is just as much about its cultural impact as it is about its pricing journey, which has been extraordinary.

Retail vs. Market

• Original Retail: Around £23,880.
• Later Retail (pre-discontinuation): Roughly £27,250.

Secondary Market Surge

• 2015: Traded for around £19,500—below its eventual retail.
• 2017: Crept up to ~£28,850.
• January 2021: Average listings soared to £66,500.
• April 2021: Prices skyrocketed to over £103,750, a 55% jump in just months.
• Peak 2021 Post-Discontinuation: Topped at ~£112,350.

Current Market (2025)

• Average Listing: ~£85,800.
• Range: From ~£48,350 at the lower end, up to £132,600+ for exceptional examples.

Why Collectors Still Love It

Even with new Nautilus references introduced, the 5711/1A continues to captivate enthusiasts for several reasons:

• Timeless Design: Clean lines and restrained proportions make it endlessly wearable.
• Heritage: Direct lineage to Genta’s 1976 design connects it to one of horology’s great stories.
• Rarity: Discontinuation ensures that every 5711 already in existence is part of a closed chapter in Patek Philippe history.
• Versatility: Equally at home, with a suit, casual wear, or even by the water.

The Last Word on a Modern Classic

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A represents the pinnacle of understated luxury. It’s not just a watch—it’s a symbol of timeless design, rarity, and cultural resonance.

For collectors, the 5711 is more than an investment piece. It’s a connection to one of the most important design movements in watchmaking, a conversation starter, and ultimately, a piece of living horological history.