For the first time since the launch of the Aquanaut collection in 1997, Patek Philippe presented a completely new collection of men's watches – Cubitus . This long-awaited collection was officially unveiled in Munich on October 17, 2024 and has already generated a lot of interest in the watch aficionado community. With its bold, angular design, Cubitus represents a modern interpretation of the brand's classic sports watches, with subtle references to the iconic Nautilus, but with a pronounced geometric, cube aesthetic.
A characteristic feature of the Cubitus collection is its angular, cube design, which is clearly different from the Nautilus and Aquanaut model lines. The steel models come with a striking green dial, while the two-tone and platinum models have classic blue tones.
Three main models
The Cubitus collection includes three key models, each aimed at different tastes within the luxury watch market:
Stainless steel model with time and date display: This model, priced at $41,240 , represents the base version of the Cubitus line. It is equipped with the Caliber 26-330 SC automatic movement, with a case diameter of 45 mm and a power reserve of up to 45 hours.
Two-tone steel and yellow gold model: For those looking for added luxury, the two-tone variant, priced at $61,280, offers the same movement and design elements as the steel version, but with the addition of gold details.
Platinum model with moon phases: The highlight of the collection is the platinum model, which adds a moon phase complication and a large date display. It is powered by the Caliber 240 PS CI J LU, with a power reserve of up to 48 hours, and the price is $88,380 .
The time and date models are 8.3 mm thick, while the platinum model is 9.6 mm thick, giving it a more pronounced presence on the wrist.
Despite all the features, the collection received some criticism due to several factors.
Many observers point out that the Cubitus collection lacks originality , with too much similarity to the iconic Nautilus line. While the cube-shaped case brings a slightly different aesthetic, some consider it a derivative design that doesn't offer anything truly new or exciting compared to previous collections. Watch lovers expect more innovation from Patek Philippe, especially considering this is their first new line of men's watches in nearly 30 years.
The case size of 45 mm, measured diagonally, is quite large. For many Patek Philippe fans, this may seem too bulky and less comfortable, especially considering that luxury sports watches tend to aim for versatility for different occasions.
Despite the high price, Cubitus only offers a basic water resistance of 30 meters, which is minimal for a modern sports watch. Given the high prices that range from $41,240 to $88,380, many expect better functionality for a watch that is presented as a sports model.
Although watch mechanisms are reliable, they do not bring revolutionary technologies . The time and date models use the standard automatic movement found in other Patek watches, while even the platinum moon phase model offers nothing particularly innovative for collectors looking for technical advancements.
These factors combine to give the Cubitus collection a lukewarm reception, especially among seasoned collectors, who expect more from a brand known for pushing the boundaries in the world of luxury watchmaking.
The collection is intended for a younger, adventurous audience, which appreciates the combination of tradition and contemporary design. While the Nautilus influence is obvious, Cubitus takes that legacy in a bold new direction. Whether it will occupy the same market place as the Nautilus or carve out a niche of its own remains to be seen, but early impressions suggest that the latest Patek Philippe collection is poised to become a favorite among established collectors and new watch enthusiasts alike.
It will certainly be interesting to see how the collection will be received by the watch aficionado community and whether it will live up to the high expectations that accompany every new Patek Philippe release. But one thing is certain: with innovative design and technical precision, Cubitus is poised to become a significant player in the luxury watch market.
Read more at: www.patek.com
Images: Patek Philippe, Supplied
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