For buyers who want the real thing, the genuine Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A is the pick. It is the only version with factory service, collectible resale value, and 120 m water resistance. The best fake is a top-tier 5711/1A replica with a decorated 324SC-style movement; it wins on price and availability, and it loses on everything else.
Top Quality Nautilus 5711/1A Replica: Comparison Review
What Are the Main Differences Between a Gen and Fake 5711/1A?
The case profile is the first tell. A genuine 5711/1A measures 40 mm across and 8.3 mm thick, while most replicas run 9.5 mm to 10.5 mm thick and feel top-heavy on the wrist. Genuine caseback engraving is deep and crisp; replica engraving often looks laser-etched and shallow.
The dial is the second tell. Genuine blue dials show a smooth dark-to-light gradient with fine horizontal ridges, and the date window font is thin and sharp. Replica dials often skew purple or too bright, with thick print and a date wheel that sits low in the window.
Fake Nautilus 5711/1A Price: Realistic Ranges and Buying Tips
The bracelet and movement separate the tiers. Genuine bracelets taper with soft, even polishing and flush screws. Replica bracelets have sharper edges and loose links. Inside, the genuine Caliber 26-330 S C has beveled bridges and a gold rotor; replicas use a Miyota 9015 or a clone movement with cosmetic plates.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A Clone With Box: Buyer's Guide
How Much Do Gen and Fake 5711/1A Watches Cost?
The 5711/1A retailed near $35,000 before it was discontinued in 2021. Secondary market prices now sit well above that, with blue-dial examples often trading between $70,000 and $120,000 or more based on condition and papers. Replicas range from about $100 for entry models to $1,000 or more for top-tier builds with cloned movements.
Which 5711/1A Option Should You Pick?
Best pick: genuine 5711/1A. Buy the gen if you can verify provenance, because it holds value and Patek Philippe will service it. It is also the only version you can insure as a collectible and pass to an heir without disclosure issues.
Best replica: top-tier 5711/1A clone. Choose a version with a cloned 324SC movement, correct 8.5 mm to 9 mm case thickness, and a blue dial with a proper gradient. Expect to pay $600 to $1,000 and to accept no factory service.
- Mid-tier option: $300 to $500 builds with a Miyota 9015 and a decorated rotor. Good daily wear, weaker dial color.
- Entry option: $100 to $250 builds. Best for photos or short wear, not for close inspection.
- Gen alternative: a pre-owned 5711/1A with box and papers, or a 5811/1G if you want the current model.
What Should You Check on a Replica 5711/1A?
Start with thickness and weight. A caliper reading over 9.5 mm is a clear sign of a lower-tier case. Next, check the date change: genuine movements snap at midnight, while many clones drag for several hours.
Inspect the crown logo, bracelet screws, and clasp stamp under a loupe. Replica stamps are often too shallow or too wide. Ask for a movement photo before you buy, since a cloned 324SC with proper finishing costs more than a Miyota build.
Can You Service or Resell a Fake 5711/1A?
Patek Philippe will not service or authenticate a replica. Independent watchmakers can swap a movement or regulate a clone, but parts support is limited and water resistance is rarely tested to 120 m. Selling a replica as genuine is fraud in the US and most other markets, so disclose the item if you resell it.
Is the 5711/1A Still in Production?
No. Patek Philippe discontinued the 5711/1A in 2021 and replaced it with the 5811/1G in white gold. That end of production is the main reason gen prices stay far above retail.
Does a Genuine 5711/1A Hold Value?
Usually yes, though the blue dial carries the strongest premium. Steel Nautilus models have outsold retail at auction for years, while replicas have near-zero resale value.
Is a Replica 5711/1A Waterproof?
Rarely to the rated depth. Most replicas pass a basic splash test at best, and gaskets vary by build. Do not swim with a replica unless a watchmaker has pressure-tested it.