The Cubitus, Patek Philippe's first new line since the Aquanaut in 1997, was unveiled a week ago. We can anticipate more variations in the future because, according to CEO Thierry Stern, the collection is planned out until 2039 (per Hodinkee), albeit this square-shaped offspring of Nautilus has launched with three initial models.
The Cubitus's reception is the true story here; people enjoy making fun of it. It's simple to criticise a new watch, particularly one that bears such a strong resemblance to a classic as the Nautilus. But figuring out which components work, which don't, and why is more difficult. Let's analyse the Cubitus today—think of it as a therapeutic walkthrough—in order to have a deeper understanding of the release and ultimately decide if it's a good fit.
There are presently three configurations in the Cubitus collection. We start with the 5821/1A, which is the least priced. The suffix "A," which stands for "acier" (French for steel), indicates that this type is entirely stainless steel. The deep green dial features a horizontal embossed design that is evocative of the Nautilus 5711, which was discontinued. The 5821/1A is priced at $41,243 and comes with a new calibre, the 26-330 S C, which is a time-and-date movement modified from the 26-330 found within the 5811.
The 5821/1AR, which has a blue dial with the same horizontal pattern, then debuts a two-tone combination of rose gold and steel. Although it is priced at $61,276 and uses the time-and-date calibre 26-330 S C, its partially-precious construction puts it in a different tier.
The flagship model of the line, the Grand Date, Day, and Moon Phase Cubitus 5822P, is made of platinum, has a composite strap, and costs $88,378. The 240 PS CI J LU, a new calibre with a Grand Date reading that changes in just 18 milliseconds, is introduced in this piece. A lot of debate has been generated in enthusiast circles about the asymmetric dial, which is punctuated by uneven, cut-off hour markers between 8 and 4.