When I first strapped on the Patek Philippe 7118, I instinctively guarded it—tucking my arm close or adjusting my sleeve to shield it. Yet, within hours, the watch became an effortless extension of my wrist. Despite its prestige and price, the 7118 blends seamlessly into daily life, proving that even the most hyped watches settle into quiet reliability. Most passersby wouldn’t glance twice, but those who know, know.
Unboxing the 7118 was a moment of pure admiration. The iconic porthole-shaped case, paired with a polished steel bracelet and silver opaline dial, exudes understated luxury. After resizing the bracelet (which runs long—my 6.25″ wrist required several links removed), it hugged my wrist perfectly. Unlike some who’ve expressed disappointment with the Nautilus in person, I was captivated immediately.
At 35.2mm wide and just 8.62mm thick, the watch is remarkably slim and lightweight. As someone sensitive to bulky timepieces—often removing them while typing—I kept the 7118 on all day without a second thought. The arched lugs contour naturally, and the supple bracelet, a Gerald Genta masterpiece, drapes like liquid metal.
Design Details: Where Sporty Meets Sophisticated
Patek Philippe’s Ladies’ Nautilus, launched in 2015, comes in multiple iterations—precious metals, diamond accents, and varied dial colors. This reference (7118-1A-010) features a stainless steel case and bracelet with a silvery opaline dial.
A key distinction from the men’s 5711 is the dial: the 7118’s wave motif shifts dramatically under light, ranging from bold contrast to subtle shimmer. The hour markers are more ornate, with tapered Alpha hands replacing the men’s baton style. While the luminescence is functional rather than dazzling, it’s legible in low light. The mix of brushed and polished surfaces—particularly on the octagonal bezel and bracelet—adds depth.
The clasp operates via twin triggers, securing with a foldover mechanism. Through the sapphire caseback, the Caliber 324 S C movement (with 35–45 hours of power reserve) is visible. Originally rated for 60 meters, Patek later standardized all sports models to 30 meters—enough for actual swimming. If there’s a quibble, it’s the modest power reserve, though hardly a dealbreaker.
A Night Among Collectors: The 7118 in the Wild
At a watch enthusiasts’ event, the 7118 drew admiration. Women who tried it on shared my instant affection, while some men praised its proportions over the larger 5711. One collector called its dial “refreshingly dynamic” compared to the “flat” classic blue 5711. The verdict? The 7118 isn’t just a smaller Nautilus—it’s a refined reimagining that holds its own.
Related topics:
- Countdown to Valentine’s Day: Luxury Watch Gift Guide Part 3/3
- Which Luxury Watch Has the Best Rubber Strap?
- Wristwatch History: A Timeline of Horological Firsts
