A Closer Look At, And Impressions Of, Patek Philippe’s Cubitus Line

I was fortunate enough to be invited to Munich for what could have been one of the biggest watch launches in the past 25 years: the unveiling of the new Patek Philippe Cubitus collection. Unfortunately, I couldn’t attend. However, getting a closer look now makes it all the more intriguing because the dust—or watch pundit arguments —  has settled and there is a chance to be objective.

There had been rumblings for a while that Holy Trinity brand Patek Philippe was working on an all-new line: the first new collection in a quarter of a century. But when the Cubitus was unveiled – in its square format with cushion corners and a sporty appeal – purists in the watch world were surprised. Many claimed it looked like the Cartier Santos, others likened it to lesser brand designs.

Most, didn’t really give it the merit it deserved. I mean, a close look at the famed Nautilus, designed by the legendary Gerald Genta half a century ago, and the resemblance is uncanny. Almost like a child or grand child – a fitting look for a brand with the  iconic slogan, “You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.”

While “sports watch” might not seem fitting for a brand steeped in haute horology, Patek Philippe has once again blurred the lines between luxury and functionality. And it works.

The collection consists of three versions, each certain to become highly coveted. Despite the initial skepticism about a square design, demand is expected to skyrocket due to the limited production, a hallmark of Patek Philippe’s exclusivity.

Easily the pinnacle of the Cubitus collection is the highly technical platinum-cased Ref. 5822P-001 Grand Date, Day, and Moonphase model. It houses an all-new self-winding  movement, caliber 240 PS CI J LU, that took four years to develop and includes six patents. This technical masterpiece highlights Patek Philippe’s dedication to innovation and precision.

The movement enables the watch to measure just just over 8mm in thickness, making it both bold and wearable despite its 45mm diameter. The rich blue dial with a horizontal stripe motif is complemented by a sleek composite strap, emphasizing the watch’s sophisticated yet sporty appeal.

Two other models complete the Cubitus trio: the Ref. 5821/1A-001 in stainless steel—rare and highly sought-after due to the scarcity of steel Patek Philippe watches—and the Ref. 5821/`AR-001, crafted in two-tone stainless steel and 18-karat rose gold.

Both pieces feature a streamlined design with a date aperture at 3 o’clock and are powered by the brand’s self-winding 26-330 S C caliber, which includes a stop-seconds function and 21-karat gold rotor. The green dial of the stainless steel version and the blue dial of the two-tone model offer subtle variations for collectors with discerning tastes.

Every Cubitus watch bears the prestigious Patek Philippe Seal, guaranteeing the highest level of craftsmanship and technical expertise. Ranging in price from $41,243 to $88,378, these timepieces embody the brand’s dedication to quality, making them instant classics.

As the buzz surrounding the Cubitus collection continues to grow, it seems the naysayers may be warming up – and rightfully so. To me, it’s clear that Patek Philippe has once again redefined its storied heritage while offering a bold vision for the future.