First introduced in 1976 when Patek Philippe was looking for a strong design and an inimitable personality, the collection was inspired by the universal shape of a cruise-liner’s porthole found on virtually all maritime vessels. The Gérald Genta-designed Nautilus subsequently became a milestone model for Patek Philippe when it was revealed in 1976.

It was the watchmaker’s first steel sports watch and it capitalised on the reinvigorated cultural interest in leisure in the post-War years, and to this day embodies a passion for living life to its fullest. ‘It goes with a wetsuit as well as a tuxedo,” read the original sales material for the watch.

The company revealed that there will be two Nautilus 40th Anniversary Editions – a platinum three-hand model (reference 5711/1P) and an 18k white-gold chronograph (ref. 5976/1G). Features include the bold blue dial stamped with ‘1976-2016’ motifs, and diamond index markers. Both watches will be delivered in vintage-style cork boxes, just like the original Nautilus was in 1976 – a nostalgic touch aimed at immensely pleasing vintage Patek enthusiasts.