When Patek Philippe announced the discontinuation of the stainless steel Nautilus Ref. 5711 in 2021, it sent shockwaves through the watch world.
Patek closed the chapter with a bang, auctioning the final 5711/1A-018 in collaboration with Tiffany & Co. (at Phillips) for an astonishing $6.5 million, all in support of The Nature Conservancy. It was a mic-drop moment for a reference that had become larger-than-life. Or so we thought.
Enter the Nautilus Ref. 5711/1500A-011: a surprising and utterly unique encore that smashed the record for the most expensive Nautilus ref. 5711 ever sold. Last night, at the Children Action charity auction in Geneva, this one-of-a-kind piece hammered for CHF 6.7 million – over USD $7.3 million – with every Swiss franc going to support the organization’s global efforts to improve the lives of disadvantaged children. The total funds raised by the auctions, which comprised four other non-watch lots, was CHF 9.8 million.
What makes the 5711/1500A so special? In a word: engraving. This is the first time Patek Philippe has ever produced an engraved Nautilus – or any engraved steel sport watch. The case and bracelet are adorned with intricate Maori-inspired motifs, meticulously hand-engraved at the factory. The watch also features a charcoal grey sunburst dial that subtly offsets the ornate casework. On the reverse, the sapphire caseback is engraved with “Children Action 2024,” emphasizing its charitable roots. As if the watch alone weren’t enough, it was accompanied by a matching pair of hand-engraved cufflinks, completing the ensemble.
The Children Action Foundation, based in Geneva, was founded in 1994 to improve the lives of vulnerable children worldwide. Its initiatives span medical care, mental health services, educational programs, and emergency humanitarian aid, focusing on creating lasting, meaningful change. Over the years, Patek Philippe’s contributions to Children Action’s auctions have raised significant funds, amplifying the organization’s impact.
Last night's result proves, without a doubt, that the Nautilus Ref. 5711 continues to carry legendary status.
Images by Jess Hoffman.