Nautilus P 3710/1A vs. PP 5711/1A?

[Demonoid]

Hi guys

New to the forum here and I wanted to seek your knowledge since I have a dilema. I am kind of leaning towards a Nautilus 5711/5712/5726 for my next purchase (still undecided) and for some reson stumble accross the Nautilus 3710. This model has been discontinued but still demands a beffy premium even in not so great conditions. My questions to you all wise gals and gents out there is this:

If you could choose between them booth, and they where both new, what would be your choice? Also, wouldnt this old model start to fail more rapidly? hasnt technolygy changed? No crystal back on the 3710.

I really apreciate your time and thoughts on this matter.

[dddrees]

Beuaty is in the eye of the beholder.


Which one do you like the most?

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Beuaty is in the eye of the beholder.


Which one do you like the most?

Indeed Dan but I'll try to answer OP's questions, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong!

Will a vintage Patek fail more rapidly? It depends on what you will do with it. Provided that this timepiece has recently been serviced it should be just as good as the other ones (or close enough to make sure you won't notice, say, a difference in their accuracy). However, the service fees will be much higher and it will be a longer waiting time for you. Technology has changed indeed but I don't know if this watch is that old, my guess is that when they produced it they probably didn't have the same equipment to test it but movement-wise it should be, as I've said, somewhat similar (with the introduction of the Patek Seal the company has become more picky about details but a Patek remains a Patek, a masterpiece of horology that has been checked by professionals and expert watchmakers).

If you really want a crystal case back then you will have to go with a more recent model but this will be a matter of tastes as well. As for myself, I must say I prefer the 5712 and do enjoy a clear case back despite the fact that it is useless but I could easily live without it. If you prefer a vintage watch (or, shall we say, an older model) then go for it but don't expect such a model to be sold for a song (far from that, these aren't the most affordable Patek's). If you prefer to save on the service fees (mind you, you will probably have to pay a good price anyway) then a more recent model will be the best one to go with but the watch may be a tad more expensive depending on the one you're looking for.

I hope it helped a bit!

[Demonoid]

Felling the Blues

Thank you so much for your comments and for taking the time to help me clear some doubts. What do you personally think about this model? and I agree with you, although the crystal back is useless and I may be able to live with it, having the opportunity to peek under the hood is something.... priceless. Specially with these type of craftsmanship.

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Felling the Blues

Thank you so much for your comments and for taking the time to help me clear some doubts. What do you personally think about this model? and I agree with you, although the crystal back is useless and I may be able to live with it, having the opportunity to peek under the hood is something.... priceless. Specially with these type of craftsmanship.

It's always a pleasure to help as much as I can!

As for this particular model, I must say it is an interesting one indeed. You don't see many of those around (in fact, this picture from the FS section is one of the very few I've had the chance to see, let alone seeing the actual model in the wild). The Nautilus is a rather unique watch with a particular shape so it does pop out in one's collection but the power reserve on this one is as useful as nice! Besides, I do love the roman numerals on the dial, it changes from the stick ones we see nowadays (although those are very nice as well).

If this watch is one you'd see yourself wearing everyday with a lot of pleasure then, by all means, buy it but be careful. It is a must to ask the seller about the service history of the watch as well as questions regarding possible polishing sessions that have been done on the case and the bracelet (although this very model seems to be in a very good condition and is up for sale by a trusted member of our community). As well, unless you trust the seller it is very (and I mean it, very) important to make sure the watch is 100% authentic! At this price, I personally wouldn't want any aftermarket or counterfeit parts on a Patek Philippe, especially an older and discontinued model.

As for the caseback, I know what you mean and do agree but keep in mind that whether you see it or not the movement in this watch, the masterpiece crafted by expert watchmakers that has been fully tested for accuracy and toughness, is still working to give you the perfect time within a few seconds a day. There are many things that make a watch something valuable for you, the movement is one of them but it doesn't mean you have to have a way to look at it.

P.S.: Should you decide to purchase either one of the models you're thinking about, keep in mind that there's always a possibility to sell it and buy another one if you get tired of it or change your mind. I never think of watches as investments but the good thing about Patek (along with a few other brands) is that they keep their value very well and there is a very special type of demand for it (especially if you buy them pre-owned), therefore you will most probably be able to sell it without losing your money if your choose your watch carefully. However, keep in mind that if you compare a modern model to a vintage one this argument will have a bad side: you may not be able to find a specific older model as easily.

I hope it helped! Please accept my apologies for the very long post!

[dddrees]

Actually I was trying to help in my own way as well.

Carl did make a good point in regards to service time and cost however. One thing that's great about a Patek is that they will always service a watch no matter how old it is. However the older and more unique the more time it will take and the more money it will cost and this may or may not be important to you. As to exactly how much time or how much more it would cost I'm not sure and you might never know until you actually send it in to Patek. No telling what may or may not need replacing until then.

In regards to the movement being any better or worse I don't think you would see much of any differrence. Although some technology has changed and possibly improved they have after all been making watches that last a very long time for a very long time.

I do know that my 5711 and 5167 can be serviced by my AD at a significantly lower cost than most other Pateks. That's because these watches are newer and have much much less complicated movements. They have done all my other services on other watches and I do trust their work.

However back to my original comment. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If I were you I would do some looking around and research, but for me it really does come down to which one you like the most and not what others think. What others think may certainly impact the price of a watch but these opinions happen to vary and change over the years. The true value really can only be measured by the person who actually owns the watch. If you don't really like it, does it really matter what others think?

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by dddrees

Actually I was trying to help in my own way as well.

Carl did make a good point in regards to service time and cost however. One thing that's great about a Patek is that they will always service a watch no matter how old it is. However the older and more unique the more time it will take and the more money it will cost and this may or may not be important to you. As to exactly how much time or how much more it would cost I'm not sure and you might never know until you actually send it in to Patek. No telling what may or may not need replacing until then.

In regards to the movement being any better or worse I don't think you would see much of any differrence. Although some technology has changed and possibly improved they have after all been making watches that last a very long time for a very long time.

I do know that my 5711 and 5167 can be serviced by my AD at a significantly lower cost than most other Pateks. That's because these watches are newer and have much much less complicated movements. They have done all my other services on other watches and I do trust their work.

However back to my original comment. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If I were you I would do some looking around and research, but for me it really does come down to which one you like the most and not what others think. What others think may certainly impact the price of a watch but these opinions happen to vary and change over the years. The true value really can only be measured by the person who actually owns the watch. If you don't really like it, does it really matter what others think?

Spot on my friend, for any watch (especially at that price, not that it doesn't matter if it's a less expensive watch but let's be honest, I don't think a lot of us like to let other people tell them what to do with such an amount of money), the first and most important question one must ask himself is if he likes it or not. Despite all the technology, craftsmanship and hard work put into the movement and the history of the brand, it remains a watch (an useful piece of jewelry as I like to say) and you're going to see the shape and the looks of it much more often than the history of the brand when you take a look at it.

...Having said that, I like to give my opinion on which one I like because I have a big mouth!

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by FeelingTheBlues

Spot on my friend, for any watch (especially at that price, not that it doesn't matter if it's a less expensive watch but let's be honest, I don't think a lot of us like to let other people tell them what to do with such an amount of money), the first and most important question one must ask himself is if he likes it or not. Despite all the technology, craftsmanship and hard work put into the movement and the history of the brand, it remains a watch (an useful piece of jewelry as I like to say) and you're going to see the shape and the looks of it much more often than the history of the brand when you take a look at it.

...Having said that, I like to give my opinion on which one I like because I have a big mouth!

No problem here, as I always respect your opinion Carl, and thoroughly enjoy reading your posts very much sir.

In fact I think this time you provided very valuable feedback.

[Demonoid]

Thank you so much for all your comments guys. I agree 100 percent with your. Ommenta and I think it all comes down to Personal preference. I do like the face o the watch and since it has been discontinued more power to it, but again I am going to be paying as much as the new model the 5711 would cost. I think I have to go and discuss it with the pillow. Again guys thank you for the detailed explanations and advice. Hope I can be as much much to you guys as you have been to me. Enjoy your Pateks!!

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by dddrees

No problem here, as I always respect your opinion Carl, and thoroughly enjoy reading your posts very much sir.

In fact I think this time you provided very valuable feedback.

It has to happen sometimes Dan!

Great piece of advice from you as well (as always).

To the OP, I would be curious to know more about your thoughts, keep us updated!

[Dino944]

Obviously, beauty is subjective. However, I would much rather have a 5711 or 5712. The 3710 is a model I was never able to warm up to. To me, the dial was all wrong. It was lacking the traditional ridged dial and the classic stick markers. I found the flat black dial with Romans missing many of the elements I had come to expect from a Nautilus. In addtion, the "Commet" torque indicator just seemed to detract from the dial. To me with the 5711 you have a classic traditional Nautilus, and it gives you a display back to view the movement. If you want some additional functions the 5712 gives you some additional functions, while maintaining the ridged dial and stick markers, and gives you a display back.

I was offered a great deal on the 3710 when they were new. Dealers were just sitting on them. It listed for around $9,600 and my AD offered it to me for $6,200. I just didn't like it enough to pull the trigger. Today they sell for a boat load more than they did back in 1999, but I never would have worn and enjoyed the watch. Some watches appreciate in value and you can see why...to me the 3710 isn't one of them. It's value was boosted when there were rumors that Patek wasn't going to continue to make the Nautilus or possibly steel watches at all. That was proved wrong with the 3712, and then its replacement by the 5712 and releases of the 5711. If you are going to spend good money on a Nautilus, my vote would be to get a 5711 or 5712.
Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[Demonoid]

Dino, thank you for the advice and I welcome it. I have never seen the 3710 in the wild, but as Carl mentioned in a past post of his, the roman numerals have their appeal. True that the aesthetics of the 5711 do not compare, and when you take the crystal back into account wich I am sucker of, this might be a no brainer. Still I find the 3710 interesting.... different, and just wanted to pick your brain guys in regards to what do you think about this model and if there is real value if one where to adquire this vintage or discontinued piece. And believe me, when it comes to making a decision, I know what I I like, as an example I own the Aquanaut on a steel bracelet which has little love in many forums. Still I pulled the trigger on that one. It not uncommon that people seek others opinions, and sometimes we might even change or minds because of someone else comment, but I know that in most of the forums four eyes see more than two. There have been times where personal experience, or knowledge might have helped in making that purchase, your hard earn cash a bit better. Just my two cents. again I appreciate all your comments and advice. Now if I could only make my mind between the 5711/5712/4526..... ARGGGG!

[Demonoid]

Guys thank you so much for all the realistic words. Like Carl said there is something mesmerizing about the roman numerals, but I also agree with Dino that the aesthetics are just not there when you compare it to the 5711. And also, when you take into account that there is no crystal back on the 3710, that for me is a big loss. I am a sucker for being able to see that the watch is as beautiful on the inside as is on the outside. But then again the 3710 has its charm.... small, but its there.

When it comes to asking people around for advice... well, many people find comfort in knowing if other people agree with you or if they see things your way. Not saying this is my rule. To give you an example I recently pulled the trigger on a new pp aquanaut with steel bracelet. In many forums or reviews I have come across, I see little love for this guy and all admiration goes to the Nautilus. Dont get me wrong, I love the Nautilus and in fact (with Gods help) I have my eyes on it as my next purchase. But for now, I liked the Aquanaut better and think its "more bang for the buck" if you can try to decipher my analogy. Beautiful in every way and sooooooooooooooo confortable, you barely notice its there. When I peek into other peoples brain, its not entirely for reassurance, but its nice that if you are going to pull the trigger on one of these babies you better be sure and if maybe some great advice or opinion comes along and can point you in the right direction more power to you. Four eyes see better that two right? Now if I could only make up my mind.... 5711/5726 or 5712.

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Guys thank you so much for all the realistic words. Like Carl said there is something mesmerizing about the roman numerals, but I also agree with Dino that the aesthetics are just not there when you compare it to the 5711. And also, when you take into account that there is no crystal back on the 3710, that for me is a big loss. I am a sucker for being able to see that the watch is as beautiful on the inside as is on the outside. But then again the 3710 has its charm.... small, but its there.

When it comes to asking people around for advice... well, many people find comfort in knowing if other people agree with you or if they see things your way. Not saying this is my rule. To give you an example I recently pulled the trigger on a new pp aquanaut with steel bracelet. In many forums or reviews I have come across, I see little love for this guy and all admiration goes to the Nautilus. Dont get me wrong, I love the Nautilus and in fact (with Gods help) I have my eyes on it as my next purchase. But for now, I liked the Aquanaut better and think its "more bang for the buck" if you can try to decipher my analogy. Beautiful in every way and sooooooooooooooo confortable, you barely notice its there. When I peek into other peoples brain, its not entirely for reassurance, but its nice that if you are going to pull the trigger on one of these babies you better be sure and if maybe some great advice or opinion comes along and can point you in the right direction more power to you. Four eyes see better that two right? Now if I could only make up my mind.... 5711/5726 or 5712.

By reading the first paragraph of your post I had the feeling you were letting that 3710 go. Don't worry about it, it does have its charm but it takes more than that, in my humble opinion, to purchase a Patek.

You are also right about having opinions as a little guideline, perhaps just to read what people think just for fun. As long as you don't only rely on others' opinions a little discussion about this or that watch can't do harm, can it?

Now let's see...







Personally I prefer the 5712 myself, I quite like the original display of the complications and find them rather useful (except for the moonphase indicator, let's be honest...). In all honesty I have the feeling this watch is just perfect for me (again, it is my personal and humble opinion), just a simple watch with a date and a power reserve indicator (two things that are, again, quite useful and nice to have) which also has a few things just to amaze you (the moonphase indicator and the second subdial, they're not necessary at all but, when beautifully displayed - which I think is the case right here - on a dial, they can make a watch look stunning and very unique).

Having said that, I am a tad biased because I've always loved those moonphase watches and I tend to like original dials (as long as you can easily read them). My second choice would the 5726 because of the annual calendar and the symetric dial, it looks very elegant and the dial offers a beautiful contrast with the sporty look of the case and the bracelet.

Still, if your budget is more limited than that the 5711 is absolutely impossible to forget. Its thin case and simple dial make it a perfect watch for every occasion, whether you want to wear it with a fine attire or just some jeans (heck, why not even shorts?) to take a walk. Without wanting to go into a cheesy poetic mood I must say the simplicity of this watch makes it even more attractive and beautiful: you know it's "nothing much", yet again you know that even this plain watch with a date window has been beautifully put up and it is a very reliable piece of craftsmanship, you don't need a lot of complications to know you wear a stunning timepiece with an even more stunning movement (which you will be able to see if you flip the watch! ).

Again, I hope it helps but it's more of an opinion of mine than any serious advice, feel free to agree with me or not!

[Demonoid]

Carl! Thanks for your post and all your opini

[Demonoid]

Please keep em coming. I think I will let the 3710 pass and focus on those three stunning pictures that you put up. Do you like that 5726 white face? Also I see where you are coming from the complication. That 5712 oozes beauty and the best part is that it's has the micro rotator that makes it different from the 5711. Only if you are in to that sort of thing. And I hav to tell you that you have read my mind, because I have always been a sucker for moon faces. Maybe te 5726 has a cleaner face but it's also sits taller on the wrist. What is your opini

[Demonoid]

Opinion on the 5712 rose gold. Too much? But I think you are right on the
the money when pointing out that the 2 best options are the 5712 or 5726.

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Please keep em coming. I think I will let the 3710 pass and focus on those three stunning pictures that you put up. Do you like that 5726 white face? Also I see where you are coming from the complication. That 5712 oozes beauty and the best part is that it's has the micro rotator that makes it different from the 5711. Only if you are in to that sort of thing. And I hav to tell you that you have read my mind, because I have always been a sucker for moon faces. Maybe te 5726 has a cleaner face but it's also sits taller on the wrist. What is your opini

Taller on the wrist? I've never thought about that! It is possible but I'm thinking that the shape of the case usually gives you that illusion more than the dial. As for the color of the dials I must say I think the white looks very pure and it is a great choice but I would personally prefer the grey or blue ones, these are the classic Nautilus colors to me. In the end, it always depends on your preferences, some people prefer darker dials, others like some that are "brighter".

For the record, I love Patek's mini rotors, I can't get enough of the 5130/5131's case backs for that very reason! Although it is hard to dislike their 22kt yellow gold rotors I think there's nothing like one that allows you to see the movement much more!

...Still, again, let's be honest and say that, in my opinion, this should not be the main reason of your choice! Keep in mind that you will see the face of the watch much more often (or at least I hope)!

P.S.: If you are interested in those pieces, again, it would be better to try them all on and really feel them. Pictures are useful but there's nothing like seeing the actual watch on your wrist. Will you be able to enjoy this or that dial for a long time? Does the weight of the watch bother you? Would you prefer a thinner/thicker case? Those questions can only be answered while looking at the pieces at an AD and trying them all on!

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Opinion on the 5712 rose gold. Too much? But I think you are right on the
the money when pointing out that the 2 best options are the 5712 or 5726.

Absolutely awesome! You must try it on.

[FeelingTheBlues]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Opinion on the 5712 rose gold. Too much? But I think you are right on the
the money when pointing out that the 2 best options are the 5712 or 5726.

Didn't see that comment! I'm a heavy gold enthusiast so if this was is on the list it will most probably get my vote! Money may be an issue with this one (not that I want to know about your budget, it's just a logical fact when comparing all those pieces) but I think that rose gold model is simply stunning!

Originally Posted by kilyung

Absolutely awesome! You must try it on.

You beat me to it Mike! Gorgeous watch, it's too bad you sold it!

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Please keep em coming. I think I will let the 3710 pass and focus on those three stunning pictures that you put up. Do you like that 5726 white face? Also I see where you are coming from the complication. That 5712 oozes beauty and the best part is that it's has the micro rotator that makes it different from the 5711. Only if you are in to that sort of thing. And I hav to tell you that you have read my mind, because I have always been a sucker for moon faces. Maybe te 5726 has a cleaner face but it's also sits taller on the wrist. What is your opini

The 5726 sits taller than the 5712 but the 5712 is THIN to start with so the 5726 isn't any worse than a Rolex. I had the 5712 but the dial asymmetry didn't work for me. I'm going to pick up a 5726/1A soon.

[texex91]

Originally Posted by kilyung

The 5726 sits taller than the 5712 but the 5712 is THIN to start with so the 5726 isn't any worse than a Rolex. I had the 5712 but the dial asymmetry didn't work for me. I'm going to pick up a 5726/1A soon.

Mike how is 5126/1 vs 5980/1 size wise?

Heard 5980 has more presence?

Have you or anyone else tried the two on?

[kilyung]

Originally Posted by texex91

Mike how is 5126/1 vs 5980/1 size wise?

Heard 5980 has more presence?

Have you or anyone else tried the two on?

The 5980 is the thicker of the two and the pushers contribute to a beefier look. Knowing your tastes, the 5980 is the one for you.

[Dino944]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

Opinion on the 5712 rose gold. Too much? But I think you are right on the
the money when pointing out that the 2 best options are the 5712 or 5726.

Love the rose 5712...stunning watch. My only issue is I wish it was on a matching rose bracelet. Of course that would boost the price significantly. However, IMHO a Nautilus needs bracelets, I just couldn't consider one on a strap.

Originally Posted by kilyung

I had the 5712 but the dial asymmetry didn't work for me.

Interesting that you didn't care for the asymmetry of the dial. That is one of the things I really like about the 5712.

Originally Posted by texex91

Mike how is 5126/1 vs 5980/1 size wise?

Heard 5980 has more presence?

The 5980 is a lot thicker. I didn't care for its thickness or its overall appearance in person. I'd rather have the 5712, 5726, or 5711. However, I think you can really only make a decision about these watches after having tried them on.

[tom2517]

Originally Posted by Dino944

Obviously, beauty is subjective. However, I would much rather have a 5711 or 5712. The 3710 is a model I was never able to warm up to. To me, the dial was all wrong. It was lacking the traditional ridged dial and the classic stick markers. I found the flat black dial with Romans missing many of the elements I had come to expect from a Nautilus. In addtion, the "Commet" torque indicator just seemed to detract from the dial.

I was offered a great deal on the 3710 when they were new. Dealers were just sitting on them. It listed for around $9,600 and my AD offered it to me for $6,200. I just didn't like it enough to pull the trigger. Today they sell for a boat load more than they did back in 1999, but I never would have worn and enjoyed the watch. Some watches appreciate in value and you can see why...to me the 3710 isn't one of them. It's value was boosted when there were rumors that Patek wasn't going to continue to make the Nautilus or possibly steel watches at all. That was proved wrong with the 3712, and then its replacement by the 5712 and releases of the 5711. If you are going to spend good money on a Nautilus, my vote would be to get a 5711 or 5712.
Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Same here, I bought my 3710 in 1999 for $8100, wore it for 3 years but could never like it. Sold it (for a nice profit) in 2005 because it was just sitting there gathering dusts.

[PatekSF]

I own a 3710 that I purchased in 2006. I absolutely love it. The comet p/r makes it a very unique piece. I have never seen that type of complication on any PP since ...