The Three Musketeers
Daniel PintoAs die-hard watch enthusiasts, for over 30 years we've faced a nearly impossible task in the watchmaking world: choosing the top three super-luxury sports watches on the market.
Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe are three of the most famous and respected brands in the world of ultra-high-end watchmaking, each with its own unique identity and a rich legacy in the history of wristwatches. In this review, we'll compare the three flagship sports watches from these brands. We'll focus on design, specifications, and price.
First up, we have the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Automatic , reference number 4500V/110A-B126. It's a stunning watch with a sleek, modern design. The 41 mm stainless steel case and link bracelet combine perfectly to create a sporty and sophisticated look, nodding to the Maltese cross on the brand's crest. This watch has a 60-hour power reserve, adequate by today's standards, meaning it can run for two full days without winding. It also features a date function and is water-resistant to 150 meters—about 50 meters better than its competitors. Bonus points for being the only one with a screw-down crown.
On the other hand, we have the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo , a watch with an iconic and instantly recognizable design. It was first released in 1972 by the great Gérald Genta and quickly, though not instantly, became a classic. The 39 mm stainless steel case has a brushed and polished finish of a quality only AP can achieve, and the integrated bracelet is a distinctive feature of the model. The watch has a 70-hour power reserve and is only water-resistant to 50 meters, which in our eyes detracts from the ability to call it a true sports watch. Basically, it's not designed for you to jump into the Mediterranean from your yacht and dive for oysters for your aperitif.
Last but not least, we have the recently discontinued Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711. This watch has an elegant and simple design that suits any occasion, with its distinctive symmetrical look, also designed by Gérald Genta (it's as if the same person designed the Taj Mahal and the Roman Colosseum). The 40mm stainless steel case has a distinctive keyhole shape, and the integrated bracelet is made of interleaved links, with satin-finished and polished finishes for maximum contrast. The watch has a 45-hour power reserve and is water-resistant to 120 meters—hardly fitting for a model named after a famous submarine.
In terms of value for money, the Vacheron Constantin is the most expensive of the three in terms of list price, at around 25,000 euros. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo is priced at around 23,000 euros, while the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 is the most affordable of the three, at around 20,000 euros. Obviously, these prices bear no relation to the watches' actual value on the secondary market. In fact, you can find a pristine example of the Overseas, close to the list price, here at LOFT !
At the end of the day, it's a matter of taste, but any of these options qualify as a true "grail," the cornerstone of any collection, and a faithful companion for the best adventures of your life.
In conclusion, all three watches are stunning, each with its own unique personality. The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Automatic is a sporty and sophisticated timepiece with an impressive power reserve and impressive water resistance. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo is a classic that remains popular after almost 50 years. Finally, the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 is an elegant and simple timepiece that suits any occasion. While price is an important factor, each of these watches is a true treasure for any high-end watch collector.
