Even in this rarefied world made of endless waiting lists and incredibly strict allocation systems, there are different levels of rarity. While indeed some Nautilus models are more collectible than others, the true endgame lies within the “out of catalogue” products. It is relatively common practice on part of Patek Philippe to occasionally offer to their most important clients the opportunity of buying watches that are not part of the public collection, but rather made in extremely low numbers and offered directly to the client, if she or he is deemed worthy. One of the rarest, if not most exclusive variants of the Nautilus family, is the present watch. The "original" off catalog watch, this platinum Nautilus is possibly one of the most understated ultimate luxury watches ever produced, long before the introduction of the 40th anniversary platinum Nautilus that is so well- known today. At the time of its launch in 2013, it was released with such little fanfare, that many did not even know of its existence, let along how it felt on the the wrist.
At first glance, the present watch may seem like a standard, albeit well-preserved stainless steel classic Nautilus. Yet, closer inspection reveals a completely different story, setting the present watch apart from the rest of the crown. A miniscule diamond is present on the bezel at 6 o'clock - Patek Philippe's secret code of signifying platinum, the noblest and most exclusive of all precious metals. As such, it sets the watch entirely apart and in a different league from the rest of standard Nautilus models.
Its heft is particularly noteworthy. If one uses the relative densities of platinum and stainless steel as a guide, the platinum Nautilus should be almost three times as heavy as the steel version. Furthermore, the platinum case has a brighter and lucid appearance the stainless steel, making the watch almost glow in appearance. Finally, while both dials display a horizontal guilloche pattern, the blue dial of the platinum model is brighter and more vivid. While these differences are subtle, they are clearly visible to the connoisseur and trained eye, making this timepiece an "if you know, you know" kind of timepiece.
So rare is this timepiece that only eight examples have ever appeared on the auction market, including the present watch.
Fresh to the auction market, the present watch is brand new and double sealed, adding even more to its desirability. As such, it is a study of originality, showing how a reference 5711/1P should look when it is brand new, from the edge of the lugs, to the case finishing and all the hallmarks - all are original, as if the timepiece left the Patek Philippe yesterday.