Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A vs 5811/1G: The Icon and Its Successor

The 5711/1A was the most talked-about steel watch of its era, and Patek Philippe ended it in 2021. The following year the 5811/1G arrived: the same idea, one millimetre larger, and in white gold instead of steel. This guide covers what changed, why the 5711’s final editions matter, how each one wears, and what to check before buying.

At a glance

From 3700 to 5811

The Nautilus began in 1976 with the 3700, designed by Gérald Genta, a steel sports watch priced like a gold dress watch, with a porthole-inspired case and "ears" at either side. In 2006, for the model’s 30th anniversary, Patek introduced the 5711: a refined, slightly larger take with a sapphire caseback and a date at 3 o’clock.

Over fifteen years the 5711/1A-010, with its blue gradient dial, became one of the most sought-after watches in the world. When Patek announced its end in 2021, it was a major moment in the watch world. The 5811/1G followed in 2022 as the new time-and-date Nautilus.

Design, side by side

Steel vs white gold

This is the big one. The 5711/1A is steel, and that is central to its legend: the ultimate "luxury sports watch" made in an everyday metal. The 5811/1G is white gold. From across a room the two look almost identical, but on the wrist the 5811 is noticeably heavier and feels like a precious-metal watch, because it is one.

Size

The 5811 grows from 40mm to 41mm. It’s a small change that shifts the proportions slightly; on larger wrists the 5811 can feel a touch more balanced.

Dial

Both use the horizontally embossed blue dial that defines the Nautilus, with applied baton markers and luminous hands. The 5811’s sunburst finish and black-gradient rim give it a slightly deeper look in changing light.

Bracelet

The integrated bracelet is half the design. Both use Patek’s fold-over clasp; on the 5811 it’s in white gold to match the case.

The movement

Later 5711s and the 5811 share the self-winding calibre 26-330 S C, with central seconds and date, visible through the sapphire caseback with its gold rotor. Earlier 5711s used the calibre 324 S C. Both are excellent, but the newer 26-330 lets you stop the seconds hand for precise time setting. Worth knowing when you compare years.

How they wear

Despite the "40mm" figure, the Nautilus wears larger than the number suggests because of the ears and the integrated bracelet, yet it is famously thin. The 5711 in steel feels light and easy to forget on the wrist. The 5811 has more presence and weight: some people love that substance, others prefer the steel’s ease.

The final 5711s

Patek closed the 5711 story with two last versions. The 5711/1A-014 has an olive-green dial, and the 5711/1A-018 has a Tiffany-blue dial made in a tiny run for Tiffany & Co. Both sit in a different league from the regular blue -010, and both are among the most collected modern Patek references.

Buying checklist

• Certificate of Origin. A complete set with the Patek certificate and box adds confidence and value.
• Calibre. Confirm whether a 5711 has the 324 S C or the 26-330 S C. Both are fine, but the price should reflect the year.
• Bracelet condition. Integrated Nautilus bracelets show wear on the clasp and between links. Check for stretch and deep scratches.
• Polishing. The Nautilus case alternates brushed and polished surfaces. Poor polishing blurs those lines and hurts value.
• Service history. Patek service papers are a plus, especially on older 5711s.
• Dial. Check the gradient is even and the embossing crisp. Dials should never be refinished.

Which one to choose

FAQ

Is the 5811 the replacement for the 5711?

Yes. It’s the time-and-date Nautilus that followed the steel 5711, now in white gold and 1mm larger.

Do they use the same movement?

Later 5711/1A watches and the 5811/1G both use the 26-330 S C. Early 5711s used the 324 S C.

How can you tell them apart quickly?

Weight is the giveaway in the hand. Visually, the 5811 is slightly larger and its dial has a stronger sunburst.

Can you still buy a 5711?

Only pre-owned. We source them regularly, including specific years and full sets.

Is the Nautilus water resistant?

Both are rated to 120 metres, fine for swimming, though most owners keep them away from the pool.