Patek Philippe Nautilus Celebrates 50 Years With New Ultra-Thin Anniversary Models
To mark the 50th anniversary of the iconic Patek Philippe Nautilus, the Geneva manufacture introduces a series of limited-edition models that revisit the design codes of the original 1976 reference while showcasing refined mechanical engineering and elegant proportions.
A Return to the Essentials
At the core of this anniversary release is a deliberate move back to the minimalist spirit of the early Nautilus models. Several of the new references eliminate both the central seconds hand and the date display—features absent from the original ref. 3700—resulting in a cleaner dial layout and a noticeably slimmer profile.
This design choice also enables the use of ultra-thin movements, reinforcing the Nautilus’ reputation as a luxury sports watch that balances robustness with elegance.
Ref. 5610/1P-001: Compact Platinum Sophistication
The standout piece in terms of proportions is the ref. 5610/1P-001, housed in a 38 mm platinum case with a thickness of just 6.90 mm. Its size recalls the historic mid-size Nautilus references, offering a versatile option for a wide range of wrist sizes while maintaining the unmistakable presence of the collection.
The watch features a full platinum construction, including its integrated bracelet, and carries the traditional Nautilus signature detail of a diamond set discreetly into the case at 9 o’clock. Its dial is executed in a blue sunburst finish with the characteristic horizontal embossing, complemented by white gold hour markers treated with luminescent coating for enhanced legibility. The absence of both a date window and central seconds hand reinforces the symmetry and purity of the design.
Powering the watch is the ultra-thin Caliber 240, a micro-rotor movement measuring only 2.53mm in height. It provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours and incorporates advanced technical elements such as the Gyromax balance and a Spiromax balance spring crafted from Silinvar. Visible through the sapphire caseback, the 22k gold rotor is engraved with the commemorative “50 1976–2026” marking, a subtle nod to the anniversary.
Ref. 5810 Series: The Modern “Jumbo”
For those who prefer a larger format, the ref. 5810 models reinterpret the concept of the Nautilus “Jumbo” in a contemporary way. With a 41 mm diameter and a thickness of just 6.90 mm, these watches are noticeably slimmer than current standard production models, a reduction made possible by removing the central seconds and date complications.
Crafted in white gold, the case is paired with a blue dial that retains the signature horizontal embossing and sunburst effect, along with classic baton-style hour markers. The collection offers both bracelet and strap configurations. The bracelet version stays true to the integrated aesthetic of the Nautilus, while the strap variant introduces a more modern approach with a navy-blue composite material featuring a textile motif and contrasting cream stitching.
One of the more distinctive executions includes baguette-cut diamond hour markers, adding a refined, high-jewelry dimension to the sporty design. This version is delivered on the composite strap and secured by Patek Philippe’s patented triple-blade folding clasp in white gold, designed for both comfort and enhanced safety.
Nautilus Desk Clock: A Rare Collector’s Piece
Expanding beyond wristwatches, Patek Philippe also presents a highly exclusive Nautilus desk clock as part of the anniversary collection. Limited to just 100 pieces, this creation brings the design language of the Nautilus into a decorative and functional object.
The clock is housed in a 50.65 mm white gold case with a thickness of 13.50 mm, featuring a construction inspired by the iconic Nautilus shape. Its design includes a hinged caseback that allows it to stand upright, as well as an integrated dust cover that protects the dial while preserving its decorative elements.
On the dial side, the piece displays a blue sunburst finish with horizontal embossing, complemented by baguette hour markers. It incorporates multiple indications, including day, date, small seconds, and a power reserve display. The movement inside is the manually wound Caliber 31-505 8J PS IRM Cl J, offering an impressive eight-day power reserve and showcasing traditional Patek Philippe finishing. The caseback is adorned with commemorative engravings and features an applied Calatrava cross in white gold.
Limited Production and Pricing
All models in the 50th anniversary Nautilus collection are produced in strictly limited quantities, reinforcing their exclusivity. The platinum ref. 5610/1P-001 is limited to 2,000 pieces, while the ref. 5810 models on bracelet share the same production number. The strap variant of the ref. 5810 is even more limited, with 1,000 pieces available, and the Nautilus desk clock stands as the rarest of all, with only 100 examples produced.
Pricing reflects both the craftsmanship and rarity of these pieces, with entry points starting around CHF 60,000 and reaching CHF 205,000 for the desk clock.
A Refined Tribute to an Icon
Rather than introducing entirely new complications, Patek Philippe’s approach to the Nautilus 50th anniversary focuses on refinement and historical continuity. By emphasizing slimmer cases, cleaner dials, and mechanical elegance, the brand delivers a collection that remains faithful to the original vision while subtly evolving it for modern collectors.
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General Specifications:
Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Nautilus
Reference: 5810/1G-001, 5810G-001, 5610/1P-001, 958G-001 (Desk watch)
Dial: Blue
Case Material: Platinum, white gold
Case Dimensions: 38 mm / 41 mm Diameter, 6.90 mm thickness, 42.44 mm / 45.5 mm lug-to-lug
Crystal: Sapphire Glass
Case Back: Sapphire Glass
Water Resistance: 30 Meters
Strap: Blue cordura strap
Calibre: 240, 31-505 8J PS IRM Cl J (desk watch)
Dimensions: 27.50 mm diameter, 2.53 mm thickness
Functions: Hours, minutes
Winding: Automatic with mini-rotor, hand-wound (desk watch)
Frequency: 3 Hz (21,600 Vph)
Jewels: 27
Power Reserve: 48 Hours
Price: CHF 90,000 (5610/1P-001), CHF 60,000 (5810G-001), CHF 75,000 (5810/1g-001). CHF 205,000 (958G-001)
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: Yes, 2,000 pieces (on bracelet), 1,000 pieces (on strap), 100 pieces (desk watch)
