Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Nautilus

Why Choose A Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Nautilus?

Buying a pre-owned Nautilus offers unique advantages for collectors, buyers and enthusiasts alike. It provides access to models and configurations that are no longer available brand new. From classic stainless steel to precious-metal variants and sought-after dials, the pre-owned market lets you acquire high-demand men's and women's Nautilus models, including icons such as the Nautilus 5711, 5980 or 7118/1A.

With demand far exceeding supply, getting your hands on a Nautilus at retail is almost impossible, often requiring years on a waiting list. Used Nautilus models are far easier to find and give you immediate access to popular models at a better price.

The Patek Philippe Nautilus is regarded as one of the world’s most collectable luxury sports watches, which is reflected in its price. But buying second-hand offers better value and pricing, making it easier to buy the piece you want. Moreover, the Nautilus benefits from proven value retention, with many models appreciating over time, which makes it a stable long-term investment.

Thus, when sourced from a reputable dealer, a used Patek Nautilus is not only a statement of style but a valuable investment.

History of the Patek Philippe Nautilus

Patek Philippe watches are recognised worldwide for their expert craftsmanship and design, with the “Nautilus” being their most popular and desirable model. Designed by Gerald Genta in 1976, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is an iconic watch that has captivated watch connoisseurs since its debut.

The ‘Nautilus’ was introduced during a time when the Swiss watch industry was struggling with the launch of battery-powered watches. To redefine the brand, Patek Philippe asked Genta to craft an automatic sports watch that combined style with practical functionality.

Before the release of the Nautilus, there were two watch categories – steel watches and luxury dress watches. While the dress watches were crafted from precious metals and were thin and dainty, steel watches were built to perform well under working conditions.

With its unique design, featuring a porthole-shaped case inspired by a ship’s portholes, a rounded octagonal bezel and a horizontally embossed dial, the Nautilus is a masterpiece and rightfully one of the most sought-after watches in the world. The integrated bracelet adds to its sportiness and makes the watch instantly recognisable.

From date-only versions to technically advanced chronographs, classic stainless steel models to precious metal editions, the Nautilus is available for both men and women in various styles to match every taste and preference.

One of the most significant and coveted models is the discontinued Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711, an iconic date-and-time watch. Another great choice is the Nautilus 5980, which features a chronograph function. For something luxurious, the Nautilus Ref. 5740/1G in white gold with a perpetual calendar is notable.

In addition to its classic models, Patek Philippe creates special and limited-edition timepieces, distinguished by rare materials and unique designs, often paying tribute to significant moments and milestones in the brand’s history.

Over the years, the Nautilus has evolved into one of the most defining watches in modern collecting, signifying the watchmaker’s devotion to innovation while preserving its Swiss watchmaking roots. Due to its prestige and rarity, the Nautilus is considered a valuable investment with the potential to appreciate over time.

Key Timeline of the Patek Philippe Nautilus

Few watches have made as much of an impact as the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Throughout its history, the Nautilus has evolved through several stages and important milestones to become what it is today.

Below is a timeline highlighting the major milestones in the Nautilus’ history.

• 1976: The Nautilus was released in 1976 with Ref. 3700/1A, known as the “Jumbo” due to the large 42mm size. It featured a stainless steel, two-part porthole case with a dark blue, horizontally embossed dial.

• 1978: A rare prototype of the Nautilus with a white dial was created.

• 1980: Launch of the first ladies’ Nautilus (Ref. 4700), featuring a smaller case and Quartz movement.

• 1981: Release of mid-size Nautilus (Ref. 3800) in 37.5mm, offering a smaller alternative with a central seconds hand.

• 1990: Original 42mm Nautilus ‘Jumbo’ Ref. 3700 discontinued.

• 1996: Introduction of Nautilus models with Roman numerals and Ref. 5060/SJ, a ‘transitional’ model with traditional lugs.

• 1998: Launch of the Nautilus Ref. 3710/1A, marking the first addition of a complication (power reserve indicator) to the collection.

• 2004: Nautilus Ref. 3711 released in 18ct white gold to replace the Ref. 3700, featuring a sapphire case back.

• 2005: Introduction of the Nautilus Ref. 3712/1A with a power reserve indicator, analogue date and moon phase.

• 2006: Nautilus celebrates its 30th Anniversary and the launch of the new generation Ref. 5711, with updated technologies and design. It includes Ref. 5711/1A, Ref. 5712 and Ref. 5980 (the first Nautilus chronograph).

• 2010: Release of the first Nautilus Annual Calendar (Ref. 5726) in a stainless steel case.

• 2012: Patek releases silvery-white dials for Nautilus Ref. 5711, 5726, and 5980.

• 2014: Nautilus Travel Time Chronograph (Ref. 5990/1A) launched, featuring a dual time zone and flyback chronograph.

• 2016: Patek celebrates the Nautilus’ 40th Anniversary with the Platinum Ref. 5711/1P and White Gold chronograph 5976/1G.

• 2018: First Nautilus Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5740/1G released.

• 2021: Discontinuation of the Nautilus Ref. 5711 and Release of the final editions: Tiffany & Co. Blue dial (5711/1A-018) and Olive Green dial (5711/1A-014).

• 2022: Patek released the Nautilus Ref. 5811G in white gold with a 41mm case.

• 2026: Patek Philippe celebrates the Nautilus’ 50th Anniversary.

Design Characteristics of the Patek Philippe Nautilus

Designed by legendary Swiss watchmaker and artist Gérald Genta, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is a state-of-the-art sports watch. Its revolutionary design, exceptional craftsmanship, and prestigious heritage make the Nautilus an icon of luxury.

Here are the key design elements that make the Patek Philippe Nautilus claim iconic status.

• ‘Porthole’ Case

The case design was designed by Gerald Genta to resemble the porthole of a ship, complete with ‘ears’ on the sides (at 9 & 10 o’clock) to imitate the hinges of a window. This helps secure the bezel to the case, enhancing water resistance.

• Octagonal Bezel

Instead of opting for a round style, Genta added an eight-sided octagonal bezel to the Nautilus with a polished chamfered edge. This unusual bezel design provides an instantly recognisable aesthetic to the Nautilus.

• Embossed Dial

Carrying on with the maritime theme, the Nautilus has a signature dial, featuring horizontally embossed lines (stripes). It comes in various colours, including black, blue-grey and champagne, often with a gradient finish.

• Integrated Bracelet

A highly polished and satin-finished bracelet fits the Nautilus. It is designed to offer both comfort and style. Unlike traditional watches, the bracelet is designed to seamlessly merge with the case, providing a continuous extension of the case.

Most Popular Patek Philippe Nautilus Models

Over the decades, Patek Philippe has dropped many references within the Nautilus collection, with some models becoming particularly famous among collectors for their design, complication and rarity.

Below are some of the most popular Patek Philippe Nautilus models worth considering:

1. Nautilus Ref. 5711

Launched in 2006, the stainless-steel Nautilus 5711 is among the most coveted Nautilus models. The 40mm timepiece was originally released with a blue-black gradient dial featuring horizontal grooves, followed by an olive green and opaline-white dial version. The Ref. 5711 was later available in platinum, rose gold and also diamond-set bezel variants. In 2021, a limited edition of 170 pieces with a steel turquoise-dial version was released to bid farewell to the iconic 5711 series.

2. Nautilus Ref. 5712

Released alongside the Ref. 5711 in 2006, the 5712 was the first Nautilus to feature a moonphase complication. This model with a symmetrical dial also features a small seconds sub-dial between 3 and 6 o’clock, a power reserve indicator between 10 and 11 o’clock, and an analogue date display between 6 and 9 o’clock. Ever since its launch, the Nautilus 5712, measuring 40mm in diameter, has been offered in steel, rose gold, and white gold, with the precious-metal options presented on an integrated leather strap that offers a refined contrast to the signature bracelet.

3. Nautilus Ref. 5980

Launched in 2006, this is another legendary classic. The Ref. 5980 is the first Nautilus to feature a chronograph complication as well as a date display at the 3 o’clock position. It is renowned for its clean dial layout with the 60-minute and 12-hour chronograph displays combined within a concentric mono-counter at 6 o’clock. Initially released in steel with a blue-grey gradient dial, the model was later expanded into white gold, rose gold, as well as two-tone versions. Perfect for casual elegance, the Nautilus 5980 remains coveted.

4. Nautilus Ref. 5990

Popularly known as the ‘Travel Time’ chronograph, the Ref. 5990 is one of the most function-packed Nautilus models. Launched in 2014, it features an additional hour hand for indicating the second time zone, day and night indicators on either side of the dial for both the local and home times, and a flyback chronograph. Even though it lacks a running seconds hand, the central chronograph seconds hand serves the same purpose. Available in stainless steel, rose gold, and exclusive white gold models set with diamonds, the Nautilus 5990 is highly sought after among collectors.

5. Nautilus Ref. 5811

Replacing the successful Ref. 5711, the Nautilus 5811 emerged in 2022 as the standard date-and-time version in the collection, but only in white gold. At 41mm, it is a bit larger than its famous predecessor and retains the blue-black horizontally embossed dial, popularly associated with the first-generation Nautilus models. The 5811 is a contemporary yet luxurious evolution, bridging the heritage of the original Nautilus with modern technical refinements. While it saw subtle improvements, the Calibre 26 330 S C remained the same as found in the 5711.

Factors That Determine The Value Of Pre-Owned Nautilus

The market value of a pre-owned Patek Philippe Nautilus is shaped by a series of factors, ensuring each piece is uniquely positioned within the secondary market. They are:

• Model Popularity & Rarity

Certain Nautilus references command higher prices due to increased demand. For instance, sought-after Nautilus models like the Ref. 5711 with a blue or green dial, those with moon phase and chronograph functions, travel time Nautilus models, discontinued references such as 5711/1A-010 or early Nautilus models, such as the “Jumbo” Ref. 3700, hold strong, high-end market value, driven by collector demand.

• Condition

A ‘mint’ or ‘near-mint’ condition pre-owned Patek Nautilus with no visible scratches or dents commands the highest price. Moreover, collectors value original cases over ‘restored’ or over-polished ones that lack the factory edges. The presence of original elements, such as an unaltered dial, hands, bracelet, and other components, significantly increases the value.

• ‘Full Set’ Status

A ‘full set’ Patek Philippe Nautilus includes the original box, manuals, warranty papers, and Certificate of Origin. This full documentation increases the value by roughly 10-25%. Additionally, a documented service history for the pre-owned Nautilus increases buyer confidence and ultimately, the watch’s value.

• Material & Configuration

Stainless steel Nautilus models are often the most desirable due to their iconic status, but precious metal versions, such as those in rose gold or white gold with a blue or green dial, can also command strong premiums depending on their aesthetic appeal and scarcity.

• Market Demand

The Patek Nautilus remains one of the most in-demand and desirable luxury sports watches globally. When demand surges due to trends, consumer preferences, media exposure, or other factors, the market value of that specific Nautilus reference rises on the secondary market. For instance, the discontinuation of the Nautilus 5711 significantly increased its desirability, thus pushing the prices on the secondary market.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Price Guide UK

In the UK pre-owned market, prices for Patek Philippe Nautilus watches generally range from £25,000 to £ 5, 68,000, depending on the exact model.

Second-hand Nautilus watches vary in age, condition, model, and popularity, all of which affect the prices. Moreover, pieces with original documentation and packaging are priced higher.

Based on our sales data at The Luxury Hut, here are the prices for some popular models within the pre-owned Nautilus collection.

Tips To Verify The Authenticity of Second-Hand Patek Philippe Nautilus

Renowned globally for its incredible design and technical proficiency, the Patek Nautilus is one of the most famous luxury watches. But sadly, this reputation and immense popularity tempt counterfeiters to produce dupes or ‘super clones’.

People who want to buy a Nautilus often turn to the pre-owned market because new ones are hard to find. To ensure you get the real deal, here are a few ways to verify the authenticity of a second-hand Patek Nautilus.

• Understand the Patek Reference

If you know which model you want, find the reference number and understand the watch's size, style, material, dial colours, bracelet types, and movement. Some Nautilus references are available only in stainless steel and only on bracelets, not straps. In a Patek Philippe Nautilus reference number, the letters indicate the material (A = stainless steel, G = white gold, P = platinum).

• Cases, Finishing & Weight

The Nautilus is known for its slim profile. Counterfeit watches often have a thicker case to hide a poor-quality movement. A genuine Nautilus with a metal bracelet should have a substantial feel on the wrist due to the premium materials used. In terms of case finishing, the transition between brushed and polished surfaces should be sharp, not ‘melted’.

• Check the Dial

The iconic horizontal dial texture of the Patek Nautilus should be precise and uniform across the entire dial face. Lettering should be crisp and perfectly aligned. The dupes often have bolder, thicker or slightly smudged text. The indices should be perfectly flat and well-set. Similarly, the luminous material should be evenly applied.

• Serial Number

Patek Philippe does not engrave the serial numbers on the outside of the case back. A genuine Patek Philippe Nautilus will have the serial number engraved on the inside of the case back or along the interior edges for those with exhibition case backs. If you see serial numbers on the case back, it is an imitation. A good way to examine is to check the case edge for a hallmark, which shows the metal purity, like 950 for platinum, 750 for 18ct gold, etc.

• Documentation

Check the paper or document listing the Nautilus reference, movement, case numbers, and other details. This cannot be replaced if lost. If the papers of a used Nautilus are missing, this document can be ordered for Patek watches older than 10 years to confirm the manufacturing details.

Why Buy Pre-Owned Nautilus Watches From The Luxury Hut?

We take great pride in offering the most competitive prices for pre-owned Nautilus watches, whether vintage, limited edition, discontinued or any modern reference.

From standard date-and-time models to Nautilus chronograph or moonphase models, or exclusive diamond Nautilus pieces, we stock a wide variety of pre-owned Patek Philippe Nautilus models, including different materials and configurations. Whether you want a sporty men’s Nautilus in stainless steel or a premium rose gold women’s Nautilus, we offer a well-curated selection for every taste, lifestyle and budget preference.

Every pre-owned Nautilus we offer is independently checked, authenticated and verified by our watch specialists before listing, giving complete peace of mind. You also benefit from a 12-month warranty, a 14-day easy return policy and our Authenticity Certificate.

Patek Philippe Nautilus watches are renowned for holding their value, regardless of age. At The Luxury Hut, we ensure that each used Patek Nautilus we sell meets the highest standards of quality, condition and performance, so you know you’re making a reliable investment.

Purchase online with free, fully insured delivery, or visit us at our London store with a prior appointment if you’d like to see the watch in person. Our unmatched reputation for quality, competitive prices, and individual care and attention is what makes us a trusted destination for buying a used Nautilus in the UK.

For further questions, contact us directly on 0207 242 9160.