Patek Philippe caused a stir with watch aficionados this week with the discontinuation of several beloved models for 2025, most notably the Nautilus Moonphase 5712A.
This stainless steel version of the Nautilus, a standout in the collection since its introduction in 2006, has been removed from the brand’s website, marking the end of its near 20-year run.
Known for its elegant yet complex design, the 5712A featured a 40mm stainless steel case with a gradient blue dial and horizontal grooves, in line with the classic Nautilus aesthetic. It was equipped with the Patek Caliber 240 micro-rotor movement, a self-winding movement that powers a range of complications including a moonphase display, small seconds, and a power reserve indicator. The 5712A’s unique charm was in its ‘oddly’ placed complications, which set it apart from the more traditional Nautilus designs.
Although Patek Philippe has yet to officially confirm the discontinuation, the absence of the 5712A from their website suggests its departure. So, what’s next for the Nautilus line? Some have speculated a limited-edition farewell release, similar to the olive green dial that replaced the Nautilus 5711A.
Alternatively, Patek Philippe may introduce a special edition version of the 5712, given that the more luxurious 5712/1R-001 with a rose gold case and bracelet is still listed on the brand’s website.
But the 5712A isn’t the only casualty. Patek Philippe has also discontinued the Aquanaut 5167A (reference 5167/1A-001), but only on a steel bracelet.
The classic Aquanaut 5167A model, which features a 40mm stainless steel case and an integrated rubber strap, remains in production, as does the the more entry-level time-and-date.
The Aquanaut, known for its sporty and versatile design, houses the Patek Caliber 324 S C – a self-winding movement that provides a 45-hour power reserve.
The discontinuation of the steel bracelet variant follows the removal of the Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A from the collection last year.
Patek Philippe’s decision to limit steel bracelets to the Nautilus could signify a strategy shift: adding exclusivity to the model, while giving the Aquanaut a sportier look with only rubber straps.
Another notable discontinuation is the Patek Calatrava Pilot Travel Time 5524G, specifically the white gold version that introduced the aviation-inspired collection in 2015.
This controversial model offered a dual time-zone complication, and was housed in a 42mm white gold case and powered by the Caliber 324 S C movement.
While the 5524G has now been removed, the rose gold variant (5524R) and other models in the Calatrava Pilot line are still available.
While it’s not uncommon for luxury watch brands to have the occasional clean out of their inventories, these discontinuations reflect Patek Philippe’s ongoing refinement of its collection.
While some of these models may be gone for good, there are strong indications that Patek will continue to innovate, possibly offering new variations or entirely fresh designs in the coming years.