
Gérald Genta is credited for the creation of many iconic watches, but among those included in his portfolio, Patek Philippe’s Nautilus is an undisputed favorite. Sure, it was not the first of his luxury sports watches, as Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak preceded it by a few years. But it is the Nautilus that is consistently sold out despite the steep price tag, with a waiting list that can go for months. It can be hard to justify why with features alone, as the alternatives can easily match that of the Nautilus. But for those who prefer it over other Genta creations, it often boils down to feelings: that of excellence, prestige and exclusivity that the Nautilus affords.
Compare Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980 Prices Online
Amazon
US$69,775.00 – Half Gold
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Jomashop
US$68,495.00 – Half Gold
Jomashop Discount Codes
Ebay
US$69,500.00 – Half Gold
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Release date: 2006
Now, the Nautilus 5980 is something else. The chronograph is quite a standout and a favorite for many, even more so than other watches under the Nautilus family. Like the piece that began everything, it was not the first chronograph of its kind, but it continues to fascinate nonetheless. It was unveiled during the Nautilus’ 30th anniversary, an event which saw a revamped collection. This time, the chronograph’s movement was revealed to be made in-house.
Specifications:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: Patek Philippe Calibre CH 28-520 C
- Power reserve: ~55h
- Case diameter: 40.55mm
- Dial: Analog
- Water resistance: 120m/400ft
- Functions: Hour, Minute, Second, Date, Chronograph
- Features: Calendar, Chronograph
Pros
Holding the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980 would allow you to feel for yourself how the Swiss brand made everything with utmost attention and care. The finishing on the case and the bracelet feels premium, befitting of its price. At 40.5mm, the case is just of the right size, proving that you don’t have to go big in order to show that you have a luxurious piece right on your wrist. This also allows for easier movement of the watch in and out of the sleeve. The dial itself is simple, as is the case with Nautilus timepieces, but it is also guaranteed to have an enduring appeal because of its understated elegance. If you want to see the movement responsible for the utility of the watch, it can be accessed with a single flip and through the transparent sapphire caseback.
Cons
Compared to other sports watches, Nautilus pieces are in high demand, and that extends to the rest of the collection. The Nautilus 5980, for all the feelings of grandeur that it can give, also comes with a price tag that is hefty, even for longtime watch collectors. If you’re looking to impress, then it’s also worth considering that the style simply isn’t for everyone even though it is a favorite among aficionados.
Compare With
- Raymond Weil Freelancer RW1212 Skeleton
- Certina DS PH200M
- TAG Heuer “Monaco” by Bamford Watch Department (39mm)
- Cartier Tank Américaine



Image credits: Monochrome Watches (featured image and article image), Time and Tide Watches, Hodinkee, Watch Collecting Lifestyle (article images)