The First New Collection By Patek Philippe In 25 Years : The Cubitus
4 min read
Patek Philippe’s first new watch collection of the millennium has arrived: the Cubitus collection, a new reinterpretation of the brand’s iconic Nautilus so to say. Launched just yesterday in Munich, where Patek Philippe’s Grand Exhibition was held in 2013, this new line breaks a 25-year streak of continuity. The Cubitus combines Patek Philippe’s signature craftsmanship with a bold, square-cased design, debuting with two standout references.
“Well, since a long time, I really always wanted to have a square watch in the
collection. It's not easy, as 85% of the watches around the world are round. And,since I was quite young, I always challenged myself to say, ‘I need to have also a beautiful square watch in the collection.’ So that's how we started, actually, simply like that, to say, ‘We have to find something new, something great,’ – and it took a long time, to be frank, to find such a beautiful piece, because there were many different ways that I could start the design with such a watch. But in my mind, it has to be a thin watch. It has also to be a watch with a new movement. And it has also to be a watch that has really all the DNA of Patek Philippe inside.”
Thierry Stern, President
The collection debuts with three models, two featuring time-and-date functions and a third offering a sophisticated Grande Date complication. Let’s dive into the details of each:
Reference 5821A – Stainless Steel, Green Dial, Time & Date
This model will undoubtedly become the most sought-after in the collection. Reference 5821A, with "A" standing for acier (French for steel), features a robust 45mm square case and a green dial. The bracelet pays homage to the Nautilus with its vertically satin-brushed surfaces, polished chamfers, and an updated micro-adjustable clasp for comfort. At just 8.3mm thick, it rivals the slender profiles of past Nautilus models, making it sleek despite its bold square design.
Inside, it houses a new self-winding caliber that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, with a 45-hour power reserve. The 22k gold rotor boasts horizontal ribbing exclusive to the Cubitus, adding an extra touch of luxury.
Reference 5821/1AR – Two-Tone, Blue Dial, Time & Date
For those who appreciate the allure of mixed metals, reference 5821/1AR offers the same sporty elegance as the steel model but with a touch of rose gold. The two-tone design features a steel case with rose-gold bezel, crown, and central bracelet links, paired with a stunning deep-blue dial. It carries the same technical specifications as the 5821A, ensuring it’s as functional as it is fashionable.
Reference 5822P – Platinum, Blue Dial, Grande Date
The highlight of the Cubitus collection is the 5822P, a more complicated timepiece that introduces a new caliber with a Grande Date, day, and moon phase. Powered by the caliber 240 PS CI J LU, this 45mm platinum watch is a technical marvel, incorporating six new patents focused on energy management. Unlike many similar complications, the functions can be adjusted at any time, offering convenience without compromising precision.
At 9.6mm thick, it’s slightly bulkier than its simpler counterparts, thanks to the new instantaneous date display. The watch comes on a blue fabric-patterned strap, designed to balance the weight of the platinum case while maintaining a luxurious yet wearable aesthetic.
A New Benchmark
As a brand that has set benchmarks in high-end watchmaking for decades, Patek Philippe remains at the forefront of innovation and tradition. Their contributions have shaped contemporary horology, from self-winding mechanisms to perpetual calendars and repeaters. The Cubitus collection not only builds on this legacy but also pushes forward into uncharted territory with its modern design and technical prowess.
Our Thoughts
The watch world is quick to pass judgment. Remember when A. Lange & Söhne launched the Odysseus and Audemars Piguet introduced the Code 11.59? Both releases were met with intense scrutiny and criticism. Similarly, the leaked news of this new collection has sparked mixed reactions. However, I believe brands must continue innovating to stay relevant and attract new audiences. While initial reactions may be divided, it's important to give these designs a chance before forming final opinions—innovation often takes time to be fully appreciated.
In Conclusion
With the Cubitus collection, Patek Philippe has managed to maintain the DNA of the iconic Nautilus while introducing something fresh and exciting. The square case design is bold but retains the elegance expected of the brand. The finely finished bracelets, new complications, and patented movements showcase Patek Philippe’s ongoing commitment to innovation while respecting its storied past.
In short, the Cubitus is poised to become another icon in Patek Philippe’s illustrious history, combining the cutting-edge with the timeless, much like the brand itself.
