Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph

The Nautilus is without question one of the great horological icons of the 1970s, and has in recent years once again become one of the most in-demand timepiece models on the planet. Collectors and prospectors alike have clamored to get their hands on Genta's second great act in luxury sports watch design, and since the legendary stainless steel, time-and-date, Reference 5711 rode off into the sunset in 2021, the demand has never been higher. Interestingly enough, most demand for Nautilus models are centered around non-complicated models, something we can't fully wrap our heads around …  This example, a Reference 5980R-001, resides in the complicated camp, boasting a flyback chronograph complication with a mono-counter display wrapped in a precious metal case that doesn't lose any of its sporty DNA. As the “R” suggests in its reference designation, this Nautilus features an 18k rose gold three-part case spanning 40.5mm in width and displays a blend of satin and polish finishings throughout, a signed screw-down crown, angular chronograph pushers that parallel the case flank, articulating end-links a sapphire crystal and of course, the model’s signature ‘winged’ silhouette. The dial features a brown bronze gradient with the hallmark horizontal grooves, applied rose gold indices, a matching rose gold handset, a handy date window at 3 o’clock and the mono-counter chronograph display at 6 o’clock equipped with co-axial hands.  Its Calibre CH 28-520 C column wheel flyback chronograph movement is built with a vertical clutch system and a dead-on accuracy rating attested by the manufacture, as well as by our measure. Throw in some shock resistance and a water resistance rating of 120m, this Nautilus makes for a pretty epic daily driver! Fitted to a signed brown alligator leather strap which cohesively follows the case taper and a signed 18k rose gold deployant clasp, this piece also comes accompanied by its complete kit, including box set, an additional strap, leather folio and booklets and a Certificate of Origin dated 9/22. A stainless steel Nautilus represents the mean. A rose gold Nautilus with a flyback chronograph? Well, that shifts it.