An engraved Patek Philippe Nautilus sells for CHF 6.7 million, setting a new world record

Jamie Weiss

When Patek Philippe discontinued the Nautilus ref. 5711 in stainless steel in 2021 – arguably the most coveted watch worldwide, at least in the mainstream – it was big news. They ended its run in style, too, auctioning off the final Patek Philippe x Tiffany & Co. Nautilus 5711/1A-018 for a whopping US$6.5 million in support of The Nature Conservancy: smashing the record for the most expensive Nautilus of all time. That watch was billed as “the last 5711” – but Patek couldn’t resist an encore… We’ll forgive them for it, as it’s also been for a good cause.

Just hours ago, a factory-engraved piece unique Nautilus 5711 successfully hammered for a whopping CHF 6.7 million at the 30th anniversary Children Action auction in Geneva, with all proceeds going to charity. Officially denoted as the 5711/1500A, it’s a striking piece unique, with a hand-engraved case featuring Maori motifs, a charcoal grey dial, and a caseback signed with “Children Action 2024”. The watch sold alongside a matching pair of hand-engraved cufflinks.

The 5711/1500A is notable as it’s the first and only Nautilus – or Patek sports watch of any description – with an engraved case, as well as the only engraved steel model. If I’m being extremely cynical, it’s fascinating how if a third-party customiser did the same work to a steel Nautilus, it would reduce the watch’s value – but when Patek does it, it breaks a record. However, its novelty is undeniable: it’s certainly more distinct than a Tiffany Nautilus, of which 170 exist.

Patek has a track record of creating extremely desirable piece uniques to support Children Action’s auctions, many of which have been cased in titanium: one of the rarest materials for watches from the Holy Trinity brand. Steel might be a slightly more common material for Patek, but an engraved steel Patek – and a Nautilus to boot? This is particularly special.

Founded in 1994, Children Action is a Switzerland-based charity that, as the name implies, has a mission to improve the lives of disadvantaged children globally and especially in developing countries. Its initiatives focus on medical care (including critical surgeries), mental health support, educational programmes and emergency humanitarian support.