Patek Philippe Discontinues Nautilus 5712A, Aquanaut 5167A and Four Other Iconic Models
Patek Philippe Cleans House: Major Discontinuations Hit Nautilus and Aquanaut Lines
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the watch collecting world, Patek Philippe has discontinued several of its most iconic and sought-after models in 2025. The Nautilus Moonphase 5712A in steel and the Aquanaut 5167A on a steel bracelet are among the casualties — a strategic pruning that signals big changes ahead for the Genevan manufacture.
For collectors, discontinuations at Patek Philippe are never just about clearing inventory. They are harbingers of new models, updated movements, and refreshed design directions. And when the models being discontinued are among the brand's most beloved, the implications are enormous.
Full List of Discontinued Models
| Reference | Collection | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5712/1A-001 | Nautilus | Moonphase, date, power reserve — steel, blue dial | Discontinued |
| 5167/1A-001 | Aquanaut | Time & date — steel on steel bracelet | Discontinued (rubber strap version remains) |
| 5524G-001 | Calatrava | Pilot Travel Time — white gold | Discontinued |
| 5370P-011 | Grand Complications | Split-Seconds Chronograph — platinum | Discontinued |
| 5719/10G-010 | Nautilus | Full diamond-set — white gold | Discontinued |
| 7118/1A-010 | Nautilus Ladies | 35mm — steel, white dial | Discontinued |
The Nautilus Moonphase 5712A: End of an Era
The Nautilus 5712A holds a special place in collectors' hearts. It was the first Nautilus to feature a moonphase complication — a poetic addition to Gérald Genta's industrial-chic design. The combination of a moonphase, date, and power reserve indicator on a steel sports watch was a masterstroke of high horology made accessible (relatively speaking, of course).
With its blue-black gradient dial and the signature horizontal embossing, the 5712A became one of the most photogenic watches in Patek Philippe's modern lineup. Its discontinuation has already triggered a surge in secondary market prices, with examples now trading well above their last retail price of approximately CHF 35,000.
The Aquanaut 5167A Steel Bracelet: A Strategic Move
The Aquanaut 5167A on a steel bracelet was the sportiest, most accessible entry point into the Patek Philippe sports watch universe. While the rubber-strapped version (5167A-001 on rubber) remains in the catalog, the steel bracelet variant offered a more robust, tool-watch aesthetic that appealed to a younger demographic.
Its removal from the lineup raises questions about Patek Philippe's strategy for the Aquanaut. Is the brand steering the Aquanaut further upmarket? Or is a new Aquanaut reference with an updated bracelet design in the works? Industry watchers suggest the latter.
What Comes Next? Industry Predictions
According to Monochrome Watches' Brice Goulard, several predictions are circulating among insiders:
- Olive green 5712 farewell edition — A final hurrah for the 5712 platform in a new colorway
- White gold 5812G successor — A precious-metal Nautilus Moonphase replacing the steel version
- New movement integration — The Cubitus movement may find its way into Nautilus and Aquanaut references
- Updated Aquanaut bracelet — A redesigned steel bracelet for the Aquanaut line
The pattern is familiar: Patek Philippe discontinues a model, collectors scramble to acquire remaining stock, and then the brand introduces a successor that justifies the wait. If history is any guide, the replacements will be worth anticipating.
Collector Strategies: What to Do Now
For those still hoping to acquire a discontinued model, the window is closing rapidly. Authorized dealers report that remaining inventory of the 5712A and 5167A steel bracelet has been spoken for. The secondary market is the only option for most collectors at this point.
However, patience may be rewarded. If Patek Philippe follows its usual playbook, the successor models will offer meaningful upgrades — whether in movement technology, materials, or design refinement. Collectors who wait may find themselves with a watch that not only honors the legacy of the discontinued references but surpasses them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Patek Philippe discontinue popular models?
A: Patek Philippe periodically refreshes its collection to introduce new movements, updated designs, and to maintain the exclusivity of its timepieces. Discontinuations also create anticipation and allow the brand to reposition models in the market.
Q: Will the Aquanaut 5167A on rubber strap still be available?
A: Yes. Only the steel bracelet version has been discontinued. The Aquanaut 5167A on its signature tropical rubber strap remains in the current collection.
Q: Should I buy a discontinued Nautilus now or wait for the successor?
A: This depends on your collecting goals. Discontinued models often appreciate in value, but successors typically offer technical improvements. If you want a specific discontinued reference, acting sooner is advisable as supply dwindles.
Source
Based on reporting by Monochrome Watches — Brice Goulard, March 2, 2025.
Related: Complete Nautilus buying guide | Pre-owned Patek Philippe availability