Patek philippe nautilus 5711 blue dial

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 with blue dial is one of the most iconic and coveted watches in the world, a symbol of sporty luxury and high horology.

About this subject

Originally launched in 1976, the Nautilus was designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, who also created the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. The reference 5711 debuted in 2006 as the modern three-hand version, retaining the original design: a 40mm steel case, an octagonal bezel with polished and brushed sides, and an integrated bracelet that tapers gently. The blue gradient dial, known as the "blue dial," is the most coveted, shifting from a dark shade in the center to a lighter blue at the edges, creating a sense of depth.

Inside, the 5711 houses the automatic caliber 324 SC, with 45 hours of power reserve and a date window at 3 o'clock. The movement is finely hand-finished, bearing the Patek Philippe Seal (replaced by the Geneva Seal in 2017). The case features a screw-down crown and water resistance to 30 meters, reasonable for a sports watch.

In 2021, Patek Philippe announced the discontinuation of the 5711/1A-010 (steel with blue dial), sparking a frenzy among collectors. The retail price was around $30,000, but on the secondary market it exceeded $150,000. The final edition, produced with an olive green dial (5711/1A-018), also became a rarity. The blue 5711 is considered one of the hardest watches to obtain, with waiting lists spanning years.

Despite being a sports watch, the Nautilus 5711 is often worn at formal occasions, showcasing its versatility. Its disruptive design heritage, which broke the barrier between casual and elegant, cemented it as a timeless icon. The blue dial, in particular, catches light in a unique way, often described as "Patek blue."

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 blue so expensive?

The high price is due to the combination of rarity, brand prestige, demand far exceeding supply, and its discontinuation. The blue dial is especially sought after by collectors.

How many Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 blue dials were made?

Patek Philippe does not disclose exact production numbers, but it is estimated that between 2006 and 2021, a few tens of thousands of steel units (including all dial colors) were produced. The blue dial is the most common among the colors, but still extremely limited.

What is the difference between the Nautilus 5711 and the 5712?

The 5711 is a basic three-hand watch with date. The 5712 adds a subdial for seconds, a moon phase indicator, and a power reserve display, making it more complex with an asymmetric design.