patek philippe nautilus 5990 travel time chrono price | Patek Philippe Nautilus gold price

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990/1A Travel Time Chronograph stands as a horological icon, seamlessly blending the iconic design language of the Nautilus with the functionality of a chronograph and a practical travel time complication. It’s a watch that transcends mere timekeeping; it’s a statement of refined taste, technical prowess, and a deep appreciation for the art of watchmaking. However, that prestige comes with a significant price tag, making understanding the *Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990 Travel Time Chrono price* a crucial aspect for any potential collector or enthusiast. This article delves deep into the intricacies of the 5990/1A, exploring its design, functionality, variations, factors influencing its price, and its position within the broader Patek Philippe landscape.

The Allure of the Nautilus 5990/1A: A Perfect Storm of Design and Functionality

The Nautilus, conceived by the legendary Gérald Genta in 1976, revolutionized the watch industry with its distinctive porthole-inspired design. The rounded octagonal bezel, the horizontally embossed dial, and the integrated bracelet all contributed to a unique and instantly recognizable aesthetic. The 5990/1A builds upon this foundation, adding layers of complexity and functionality without compromising the core essence of the Nautilus.

* The Iconic Design: The stainless steel case, measuring 40.5mm in diameter, retains the signature Nautilus shape, offering a comfortable and substantial presence on the wrist. The horizontally embossed black-gradient dial provides a captivating backdrop for the various indications, ensuring legibility and visual harmony. The integrated bracelet, a hallmark of the Nautilus, seamlessly blends with the case, further enhancing the watch's sleek and sophisticated profile.

* The Travel Time Complication: The Travel Time function allows the wearer to simultaneously track two time zones – local time and home time. Two central hour hands are present, one solid and one skeletonized. The solid hand indicates local time, while the skeletonized hand shows the home time. Two apertures on the dial at 3 and 9 o'clock display day/night indicators for local and home time, respectively. The local time hour hand can be advanced or retracted in one-hour increments using the pushers on the left side of the case, making it incredibly convenient for frequent travelers.

* The Chronograph Functionality: The chronograph function, activated by the pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock, adds another layer of utility to the 5990/1A. The central chronograph seconds hand and the 30-minute counter at 6 o'clock allow for precise measurement of elapsed time. The chronograph subdials are meticulously integrated into the dial, maintaining the overall aesthetic balance.

* The Movement: Caliber CH 28-520 C FUS: Powering the Nautilus 5990/1A is the in-house Caliber CH 28-520 C FUS, a self-winding movement renowned for its precision, reliability, and exquisite finishing. This movement combines a column-wheel chronograph with a vertical clutch, ensuring smooth and precise chronograph operation. The Travel Time mechanism is also seamlessly integrated into the movement, showcasing Patek Philippe's mastery of horological engineering. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back, allowing for appreciation of the intricate components and meticulous hand-finishing.

Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990 Price: A Deep Dive into the Numbers

The *Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990 Travel Time Chrono price* is a complex subject, influenced by various factors including material, market demand, condition, and provenance.

* Retail Price vs. Market Price: The retail price of the Nautilus 5990/1A, when it was available through authorized dealers, was significantly lower than its current market value. Due to high demand and limited production, the 5990/1A is almost impossible to acquire at retail, leading to a substantial premium on the secondary market.

* Stainless Steel (5990/1A): This is the most common variant of the 5990. As mentioned earlier, the secondary market price for a stainless steel 5990/1A is currently significantly higher than its original retail price. Prices on platforms like Chrono24 can range from $180,000 to well over $300,000, depending on the condition, box and papers, and the seller's reputation. The "dot" version with the dot beside the Swiss Made at the 6 o'clock position usually commands a premium.patek philippe nautilus 5990 travel time chrono price

* Rose Gold (5990/1R): The 5990/1R, crafted in rose gold, presents a more luxurious and opulent aesthetic. The rose gold case and bracelet are complemented by a chocolate brown dial, creating a warm and sophisticated look. The *Patek Philippe 5990 rose gold* price is generally higher than the stainless steel version, reflecting the increased material cost and perceived exclusivity. Expect to pay significantly more for a rose gold 5990/1R on the secondary market, often exceeding $350,000 and sometimes reaching upwards of $500,000 depending on the condition, completeness of the set, and market conditions.

* Factors Influencing Price: