After 25 years, Patek Philippe has launched a very new vary of watches. What individuals thought could be revealed at Watches & Wonders has as an alternative been revealed in Geneva this previous week. However is it any good?
By no means in my wildest goals would I’ve thought Patek Philippe would bounce on the sq. watch pattern. However right here we’re—Patek Philippe has simply launched the Cubitus, the model’s first completely new assortment in 25 years. And sure, it’s bloody sq..
Sq. watches have gained traction over the previous few years, with iconic fashions just like the TAG Heuer Monaco and extra not too long ago, the Cartier Santos main the cost.
The Cartier Santos, particularly, has develop into the go-to luxurious sq. watch for many consumers. After all, there’s additionally Richard Mille’s tonneau-shaped choices and the Hublot Spirit of Huge Bang, however with regards to watches which can be extra accessible (comparatively talking), it’s been a two-horse race between the Cartier Santos and TAG Heuer Monaco.
Associated Tales
As a TAG Heuer Monaco proprietor myself, I’ll admit I don’t put on it typically, however I find it irresistible. That’s why I discover it so unusual that Patek Philippe has determined to launch the Cubitus now. At first look, it’s nearly only a Nautilus with sq. edges. The bracelet, the dial—all of it feels fairly acquainted with Gerald Genta’s iconic aesthetics. The Caliber 26‑330 motion can be the identical motion which powers the Nautilus and Aquanaut fashions, such because the uncommon Tiffany blue Nautilus.
Now, contemplating how Patek has made the Nautilus more durable and more durable to get, will the Cubitus be the watch individuals flip to in frustration? It’s arduous to say at this early stage.
When Audemars Piguet launched the Code 11.59, everybody hated it at first. However over time, it’s grown on us, and every evolution appears to get higher. May the identical occur with the Cubitus? Will we glance again in a couple of years and admire its boldness?
There’s additionally the query of technique. Many consider that the Cubitus is perhaps the “entry ticket” to get your fingers on different Patek Philippe fashions. This tactic has labored for Audemars Piguet, and it wouldn’t be stunning if Patek is making an attempt to copy the mannequin right here. The Cubitus is available in related variations to the Nautilus—inexperienced dial, blue dial, platinum—and at related worth factors. So, did Patek Philippe really want to launch this watch, or is it only a strategic play to seize a slice of the sq. watch market, presently dominated by Cartier?
After all, there’s the exclusivity issue. Patek Philippe watches are as uncommon as rocking horse shit, and the Cubitus will doubtless be no completely different. The shortage will drive demand, however whether or not it turns into a coveted collector’s merchandise just like the Nautilus continues to be up for debate.
So, do you have to purchase one? It relies upon. Should you’re a die-hard Patek fan with an extended historical past with the model, you’ll doubtless get your fingers on one. And possibly, simply possibly, it’ll develop on you. Nonetheless, for many of us, the Cartier Santos Dumont nonetheless reigns supreme within the sq. watch enviornment, with the TAG Heuer Monaco not far behind.
That mentioned, after seeing the Patek Philippe Cubitus on a couple of wrists together with our Scandinavian good friend @kristianhaagen, it’s not the ugliest watch I’ve ever seen. Will or not it’s a hit? Solely time will inform. Keep watch over this one.
Patek Philippe is bought by means of Kennedy and The Home Glass in Australia.
