Okay, so, I saw this thing online about the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711, you know, the one that’s like, super hard to get. I heard that the waitlist can be as long as 8 years! Can you believe that? Eight years just to get a watch! Anyway, I thought, “Why wait? Let’s just remake it ourselves!”
First, I started by doing some digging. I went on the Patek Philippe official website and looked for their authorized retailers and showrooms. I figured that if I’m going to remake this watch, I need to know everything about the original, right? I carefully checked their official store locator to see where these watches are sold. I learned that only boutiques and dealers listed on their website are officially authorized to sell these fancy watches.
Then, I dug deeper into the details of the 5711. I read that it’s made of steel and it’s been discontinued, but there’s a new version, the 5811, which is made of white gold and costs a whopping $69,785! I mean, that’s a lot of money for a watch! I also found out about a special edition, the 5711/1500A, which is hand-engraved and will be auctioned off. That’s pretty cool, but still way out of my league.
Next, I started thinking about how I could actually remake this watch. I’m no watchmaker, but I’m pretty handy. I figured I could start by finding a watch that looks similar to the Nautilus. I spent hours searching online, looking at different watch designs. I finally found a few that had a similar shape and style.
Once I had a base watch, I started thinking about the modifications I needed to make. I knew I couldn’t replicate the exact materials or the intricate details, but I could try to get the overall look and feel right. I made a list of all the changes I wanted to make, like changing the color of the dial, adding some details to the bezel, and maybe even engraving something on the back.
I gathered all the tools and materials I needed. This included some basic watchmaking tools, like a small screwdriver set and tweezers, as well as some paint, a fine-tipped brush, and some engraving tools. I also printed out some high-resolution images of the Nautilus 5711 to use as a reference.
Then came the hard part: actually working on the watch. I carefully disassembled the base watch, making sure to keep track of all the tiny screws and parts. I painted the dial using a very fine brush, trying my best to match the color of the original Nautilus. It took a few tries, but I finally got it right. I also added some details to the bezel using a small engraving tool. It wasn’t perfect, but it definitely added some character to the watch.
- Carefully disassembled the watch.
- Painted the dial to match the original.
- Added details to the bezel with an engraving tool.
- Reassembled the watch with modifications.
Finally, after hours of work, I reassembled the watch. It wasn’t a perfect replica, but it definitely captured the spirit of the Nautilus 5711. I was pretty proud of myself for pulling it off. I mean, I’m no Patek Philippe, but I think I did a decent job. And the best part? I didn’t have to wait eight years or spend a fortune to get it! It maybe not perfect as the oringal, but at least looks similar to some degree.
So, that’s my story of remaking the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711. It was a fun project, and I learned a lot along the way. Maybe one day I’ll actually be able to afford the real thing, but until then, I’m happy with my homemade version. I mean, it looks good on my wrist, it’s really great, you should try too.
What a crazy DIY project!
I did learned a lot during the process, such as how to disassemble the watch, how to modify the parts with simple tools, and how to reassemble it back. These are some experience I never had before.
I’m going to wear it with me from now on, I mean why not. Although it is not perfect but at least it is unique, right?
Anyway, hope you enjoy my little project, feel free to share yours and tell me what you think!
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