Watch Paparazzi

Footballer Antoine Griezmann spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Antoine Griezmann, the French international striker currently leading the line for Atlético Madrid, was recently spotted wearing one of Patek Philippe's most coveted complications — the Nautilus Chronograph reference 5980/1R in 18kt rose gold. The sighting adds another serious horological statement to Griezmann's well-documented affinity for fine timepieces.

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980/1R is no casual dress watch. Launched in 2006 to mark the 30th anniversary of the original Nautilus — itself designed by Gérald Genta and introduced in 1976 — the 5980 brought integrated chronograph functionality to the iconic porthole-inspired case for the first time. The 40.5mm rose gold case houses the manufacture calibre CH 28-520 C, a column-wheel lateral clutch movement with a 45-to-55 hour power reserve, beating at 28,800 vph. The dial presents the characteristic Nautilus horizontal embossed pattern in a warm brown-blue gradient, complemented by two contrasting subdials at three and six o'clock for the 30-minute and seconds registers. The integrated rose gold bracelet with its signature folding clasp remains one of the finest executions of its kind in the industry.

From a collector standpoint, the 5980 in rose gold occupies rarefied territory. Unlike the stainless steel 5980/1A — which commands extraordinary premiums on the secondary market due to steel scarcity — the rose gold reference appeals to collectors seeking the full Nautilus experience with additional material prestige. It is a watch that demands respect both technically and aesthetically, and it rarely appears at anything approaching its retail figure in the open market.

Griezmann has long signalled his passion for haute horlogerie, and the 5980/1R is a deliberate, informed choice — not merely a status symbol but a recognised pinnacle of integrated-bracelet sports watchmaking. Few footballers wear a piece that so precisely demonstrates knowledge of the category.

At UK list price of £67,500, the 5980/1R is already a significant investment at retail — a figure most buyers will never encounter, given Patek Philippe's famously constrained supply. On the grey market, rose gold Nautilus chronographs consistently trade well above list, reflecting the model's enduring global demand and the brand's refusal to inflate production volumes.