Spring Into Time

Patek Philippe gives horology aficionados the perfect gift of an enriched Nautilus collection for ladies

- TAN SIOK HOON

More than four decades after its introduction, the Nautilus is more sought after than ever with a waiting list that doesn’t abate. To mark the launch of the inaugural Nautilus model, Patek Philippe’s marketing tag line for the Ref. 3700/1A was “One of the world’s costliest watches is made of steel.”

The claim still holds true today for the timepiece, and how can it not? Debuting with a diameter of 42 mm back in 1976, Patek has since released countless iterations of the Nautilus for men over the years, together with a model for ladies first introduced in 1980. At the 2019 Baselworld, Patek Philippe revisited its Nautilus Ref. 7118 collection for ladies to deliver five refreshed versions.

Bearing top design pedigree — showcasing a unique bezel that straddles a round and squarish form that echoes a ship’s porthole, with softened angles and bevelled flanks; two long lateral lugs emulating the lock and hinges on portholes; embossed pattern mimicking gentle waves on the dial; and an integrated bracelet — the strong, sporty yet classy sensibility of the Nautilus is perfectly synergised and thoroughly unmistakable.