So I’ve been tinkering around with watches for a while now, and I’ve always been a huge fan of the Patek Philippe Nautilus line. I mean, who isn’t, right? They’re just so sleek and stylish. I decided to take on a little project – remaking the Nautilus 5713, you know, the one with the diamond bezel. It’s a pretty rare model, discontinued back in 2009, so getting my hands on a real one wasn’t exactly easy, or cheap.
First off, I spent hours just staring at pictures of the 5713. I wanted to get every little detail right. The rounded octagonal bezel, that cool porthole case design, and that embossed dial – it all had to be perfect. I even dug into the history of the Nautilus, how it’s been around since 1976, and how it’s like, the go-to elegant sports watch.
Then came the actual making part. I started with the case. I managed to find some 18K white gold, just like the original. I wanted to make sure that it felt as good as it looks, so it took a couple of tries, but I made the shape and the brushed finish that just looked right.
Next up was the bezel. This was the tricky part. I carefully selected some diamonds, trying to match the size and brilliance of the ones on the 5713. Setting them was a whole other story. I had to be super precise, making sure each diamond was secure and aligned perfectly. It was a real test of patience, let me tell you.
- Case Construction
- I started with an 18k white gold, because I wanted this piece feel authentic.
- The rounded octagonal bezel was a bit of a challenge, but I managed to get it pretty close to the original design.
- The porthole construction of the case? Let’s just say it involved a lot of trial and error, but it was worth it.
- Diamond Setting
- Diamonds. So many diamonds. Each one had to be placed just right.
- I spent hours just making sure the diamonds were securely set. One wrong move, and it’s back to square one.
The dial was another challenge. I wanted that horizontal embossing that the Nautilus is known for. I experimented with a few different techniques, using some stamps and pressure, and finally got something that looked pretty darn close to the original. I added the hour markers and hands, making sure they had that same elegant look. I used some tiny brushes and a steady hand for it.
The movement inside is not a real Patek movement, obviously. I used a reliable automatic movement that I had lying around. But, hey, it keeps good time, and that’s what matters, right?
Putting it all together was like a dream come true. Seeing all those parts come together, forming this beautiful watch, it was a great feeling. I even made a nice white gold bracelet for it, with that classic Nautilus fold-over clasp. It took me a good chunk of time, working on it whenever I had a spare moment, but the end result was totally worth it.
Wearing it for the first time was pretty amazing. It felt great on my wrist, and it looked even better. I know it’s not a genuine Patek, but it’s something I made with my own two hands, and that’s pretty special to me.
Reflections
This whole project has been such a learning experience. From researching the history of the Nautilus to the nitty-gritty of watchmaking, I’ve picked up so much. And let me tell you, my respect for the craftspeople at Patek Philippe has gone through the roof. It makes sense why these watches are so prized.
I’m not saying I’m at their level now, not by a long shot. But this project has given me a taste of what it takes to make a truly exceptional watch. The passion, the creativity, the innovation – it’s all part of the process. And to see the quality they achieve, it’s just mind-blowing.
This little adventure has definitely fueled my passion for watches even more. I’m already thinking about what my next project will be. Maybe another Nautilus? Or perhaps something completely different? Who knows! The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this hobby so exciting.
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