![](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1" height="3543px" width="3543px"></svg>)
S ince its inception in 1976 by Gerald Genta, the Patek Philippe Nautilus has indisputably become the world’s most exclusive sport chic watch. Every collector aspires to own an example of this revered masterpiece, generating endless fascination the world over and excessively lengthy waiting lists at retailers. Auction rooms are no stranger to the Nautilus craze and Sotheby’s is delighted to offer two highly collectible model variants in this Watches Weekly sale.
Whilst the initial reference 3700 developed into a head-turning vintage timepiece and an auction star (slightly more than 3,000 were produced, with much fewer seen at auction), Patek Philippe subsequently released highly sought-after versions of the Nautilus which collectors are longing for.
Following the launch of the medium-sized ref. 3800 in 1980, the reference 3710 reintroduced the original Jumbo size to the catalog in 1998, followed by the launch of the rare reference 3711, namely the first white gold Jumbo Nautilus, produced for approximately 2 years.
A major update to the lineup was announced in 2006 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Nautilus, with the notable introduction of the contemporary ref. 5711, considered as the modern interpretation of the original 3700. A true status-symbol, the refreshed Nautilus collection saw the integration of complicated movements with the ref. 5712 (moon phase, date and power reserve) and the ref. 5980 (chronograph with date).
Ten years later in 2016, Patek Philippe celebrated the 40th anniversary with the exceptional release of two infinitely desirable series. The now legendary ref. 5711, enjoying the “hottest watch on the market” status, was fitted for the special occasion with a rich diamond-set ribbed dial, featuring a commemorative engraving. The signature case and bracelet are crafted from solid platinum, with the inclusion of the signature diamond to the case band at six o’clock. Produced as a limited edition of 700 unnumbered examples and exclusively sold to Patek Philippe’s most prominent clients, the unobtainable Nautilus ref. 5711/1P stands as the most exclusive and sought-after trophy of modern collecting. The 5711/1P boasts a look of its own, with a shimmering and unique blue dial tone and further decorated with diamond-baton indexes. In pure homage to the original design, Patek Philippe recreated the legendary cork box to accompany the timepiece.
The Anniversary 5711/1P stands as one of the very few platinum Nautilus references to have ever been released. Immediately distinguishable from the standard production, yet embodying the very essence of the model, this limited series is the pinnacle the most famous sport chic watch ever created.
Conserved in like-new condition, this Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1P belongs to the realms of exception and will surely be an extremely valuable addition to any serious collection.
