The Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph – Elegance in Rose Gold

We are in world of constantly changing trends and fashions. Things are "in" and as quick as they came they are then "out". To transcend this movement it takes something of special quality and exceptional value. This is evident to me in the aesthetically stunning and technically brilliant Patek Philippe 5980R.

The Patek Philippe Nautilus was launched in 1976, a bold design for a strong personality, and a departure from the classic styles the brand were hitherto known for.

The design immediately established itself as a classic, elegant sports watch, its distinctive case design taking inspiration from the portholes of maritime vessels.

The Nautilus Chronograph 5890R offers a subtle refinement to the collection – elegance in rose gold. The timepiece gives the wearer a casual elegance like few others could. The entrancing beauty comes from a Gerald Genta case design, combined with the darker red hue of the rose gold and the brown embossed dial maintains a masculinity without compromising on elegance.

From a technical aspect the 5980R is quite simply legendary. The three part porthole style case shape with a screwed sapphire crystal display back is able to provide a remarkable water resistance of 120m. The modern, self-winding  CH  28-520  Chronograph movement is nothing but exceptional, using a column wheel chronograph and a vertical disk clutch provides the wearer with a seamlessly integrated chronograph movement that starts and stops without hesitation for precision timing, and allows the chronograph to double as a continuously running sweep seconds hand.

As with all Patek Philippe watches, it is the impeccable attention to detail that makes this watch truly special. This is the first Nautilus to come on a leather strap, almost seamlessly integrated into the case, but the aesthetic details don’t end there. The 18ct rose gold has a higher than average copper content, giving it a more masculine deep-red colour. The perfectly matching brown dial has a horizontal embossed texture and a subtle gradation of colour from the centre to the edges. The hour markers are prominent in rose gold, and filled with luminescence, while the hands are easily distinguished by contrasting shape and colour.

Overall this timepiece gives a strong identity with comfort to match. This is a watch that can be worn everyday with the knowledge of an exceptional value that will be gained through the enjoyment of ownership. Truly a special watch from a special brand!

Since its launch at Baselworld in 2010, the Nautilus Chronograph has been one of the most sought after watches it the Patek Philippe range. To find out more, contact our Patek specialist, Stewart Simpson, or book an appointment in our Hampshire store.