Okay, here is my sharing about remaking the Patek Philippe PP Nautilus 5712, based on my experience:
So, I got this crazy idea to remake the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5712, the original version. You know, the one that’s like, ridiculously expensive and hard to get? Yeah, that one. I’ve always loved the design, but let’s be real, I’m not dropping a fortune on a watch. So, I thought, “Why not try to make my own?”
First, I started by looking closely at tons of pictures and videos of the original 5712. I focused on every little detail, from the shape of the case to the way the dial catches the light. I even watched some videos of people taking them apart, just to see how they’re put together. You could say I became a bit obsessed, but that’s what it takes, right?
Next, I tried to find parts that looked similar. This was a real challenge. I searched all over the internet, hitting up every forum and online marketplace I could find. I wasn’t looking for exact replicas, but things that had a similar vibe. For example, I found a watch case that had a sort of octagonal shape, just like the Nautilus. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a good starting point.
I also found some hands and a dial that were kind of close in style. I ended up getting a few different options to see what looked best. Finding the movement was really tricky. I wasn’t going to use a real Patek movement, obviously. I just needed something reliable and that would fit in the case I chose. It took some time but I finally get a proper movement after spending a lot of time.
- Getting the parts: This took a while, and I had to be patient. Some parts I ordered online, others I found in local watch repair shops.
- Putting it together: This was the hardest part. I’m not a watchmaker, so I had to learn a lot along the way. I watched a bunch of tutorials online.
- Testing it out: Once I finally got it assembled, I had to see if it actually worked. I wore it around for a few days to make sure everything was running smoothly.
After I got all the parts, it was time to put everything together. Now, I’m not a professional watchmaker or anything, but I’m pretty handy. I bought some basic watchmaking tools and started tinkering. There were definitely some frustrating moments. I remember one time I almost launched a tiny screw across the room. But I kept at it, and slowly but surely, it started to come together.
Once it was all assembled, I compared it to the pictures of the original 5712. Of course, it wasn’t exactly the same, but it definitely had that Nautilus feel. The case shape, the dial layout, the way the bracelet integrated with the case—it all came together to create something that was at least reminiscent of the original. I even added a power reserve indicator like the original 5712, which was my favorite.
The Final Result
In the end, I was really happy with how it turned out. It’s not a perfect replica, and it’s definitely not worth anything close to a real Patek Philippe. But it’s my own creation, and it’s something I’m proud of. Every time I wear it, I’m reminded of the challenge and the fun I had making it. It is such a fun experience, I even want to make some more next time!
I’m calling it my “inspired by” piece. This whole thing was more about the process and the learning experience than anything else. And who knows, maybe this is just the start. Maybe I’ll try to remake other watches in the future. We’ll see! But for now, I’m just going to enjoy wearing my “Not-So-Patek” Nautilus and remember the crazy journey it took to get here.
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