Patek Philippe Nautilus
Nautilus listings: price and sales statistics
- Listings for sale
- 6
- Median asking price
- $165,000
- Price range
- $107,000 – $195,000
- Made 2010–2022
- Sold listings
- 6
- Median asking price $120,243
Based on asking prices · 29 October 2026
Other Patek Philippe models
About Patek Philippe Nautilus
The Gérald Genta Signature and Porthole Case Architecture
Patek Philippe permanently redefined the concept of the luxury sports watch in 1976 with the Nautilus, designed by legendary watch designer Gérald Genta. Taking inspiration from the waterproof portholes of transatlantic ships, the model derives its name from the submarine in Jules Verne's novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. The satin-finished bezel with an octagonal form and softened corners, the hinge ears on both sides of the body, and the integrated bracelet that merges with the case have made this model one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the watchmaking world for nearly half a century.
Milestones of the Modern Era: 5711, 5712, and 5980
The year 2006, marking the 30th anniversary of the model, witnessed the birth of the core references that initiated the modern era of the collection. Standing out with its three-hand simplicity and date aperture, the 5711/1A was equipped first with the caliber 324 SC and later with the caliber 26-330 SC featuring hack seconds. Drawing attention with its asymmetrical dial layout, the 5712/1A combined power reserve indicator, date, and moon phase complications, powered by the ultra-thin Calibre 240 PS IRM C LU featuring micro-rotor architecture.
Representing the chronograph wing of the collection, the 5980/1A reinforced its sport watch identity with a concentric single register monocounter layout at 6 o'clock and the flyback chronograph Calibre CH 28-520 C movement. Variations added to the series over time, such as the rose gold 5711/1R-001, 5980/1R-001, and the two-tone 5980/1AR-001 combining stainless steel with rose gold, brought the characteristic lines of the case together with a rich diversity of materials.
Horizontally Embossed Dial and Thin Case Proportions
One of the most distinctive visual elements of the Nautilus family is its horizontally embossed dial texture that shifts tones depending on the light. The lume filling on the white gold applied indices and hands enhances its sport identity while maximizing legibility. The contrast created by the brushed flat surfaces and mirror-polished chamfers along the case profile continues with a smooth rhythm across each link of the integrated bracelet. From three-hand models with a case thickness of approximately 8.3 mm to complex chronographs, every version offers balanced ergonomics and comfort on the wrist.
Points to Consider When Buying Pre-Owned and Unworn Nautilus Watches
When evaluating a pre-owned or unworn Nautilus, maintaining the original form of the case and bezel is the most critical aspect; on over-polished examples, the distinction between the sharp brushed surfaces and mirror-polished chamfers on the bezel edges may weaken. The play level in the links of the integrated bracelet, the screw-down crown threads, and the timekeeping values of the movement should be meticulously inspected. To preserve its collection value, having the complete original box and papers as well as past service records is of paramount importance. Listings on Watchlabb come from individuals with verified identities and contact information, as well as approved stores; buyers contact the seller directly to complete the transaction without intermediaries or commission fees.
Patek Philippe Nautilus — frequently asked questions
What are the main differences between the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 and 5712?
Reference 5711 offers a clean three-hand architecture with central seconds and a date aperture at 3 o'clock. The 5712, on the other hand, combines power reserve indicator, date, and moon phase complications in an asymmetrical dial layout powered by its ultra-thin movement with a micro-rotor. Although their case sizes and integrated bracelet structures are very similar, their dial layouts and functional offerings are distinctly different.
How do you read the chronograph register on the Nautilus 5980?
The Nautilus 5980 features a single concentric register at 6 o'clock instead of the separate registers found in traditional models. This register displays both 60-minute and 12-hour total elapsed times on the same circular axis using two separate hands. Thanks to the flyback feature of Calibre CH 28-520 C, you can reset and restart the chronograph with a single press of a pusher without stopping it.
Why is case polishing a critical detail when buying a pre-owned Nautilus?
The design character of the Nautilus case relies on sharp lines created by flat satin-brushed areas and mirror-polished chamfers. Repeated or careless polishing procedures can cause these chamfers to round off and the angular geometry of the case to disappear. For this reason, watch enthusiasts and collectors prefer cases that have preserved their original factory finishing and sharp edges.
What is the water resistance rating of Patek Philippe Nautilus models?
Classic steel references like the 5711 and 5980 offer water resistance up to 120 meters with a screw-down crown, making them suitable for daily wear including water sports. However, the 5712 model, which features calendar correction pushers on the side of the case, has a water resistance rating of 60 meters. Before exposing a pre-owned watch to water, it is recommended to check the condition of the gaskets for wear and perform pressure tests.
What is the service interval for a Patek Philippe Nautilus movement?
Periodic service every 3 to 5 years is recommended to ensure oil performance, timekeeping accuracy, and gasket elasticity in a mechanical movement. During service, the movement is completely disassembled and cleaned, worn parts are replaced, and water resistance gaskets are renewed. To preserve the condition and value of the case, it is important that these procedures are carried out by expert watchmakers.