Footballer Paulo Dybala spotted wearing a Patek Philippe

Paulo Dybala, the Argentine forward currently starring for AS Roma in Serie A, was recently spotted wearing the Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph in rose gold, reference 5980/1R-001 — one of the most coveted sport watches in modern horology and a piece that demands genuine collector credibility to wear convincingly.

The ref. 5980R was introduced in 2006 as a direct celebration of the Nautilus's 30th anniversary. Where the standard Nautilus ref. 5711 offered elegant simplicity, the 5980 pushed the technical envelope considerably. Its dial integrates a horizontal-register flyback chronograph layout — a relatively rare configuration — with the signature horizontal embossed Nautilus dial pattern rendered in a warm chocolate-brown tone that flatters the 18k rose gold case beautifully. The case measures 40.5mm, and the matching integrated rose gold bracelet follows Genta's original stepped-lug architecture faithfully.

The movement inside is Patek Philippe's manufacture calibre CH 28-520 C, a column-wheel flyback chronograph with a lateral clutch. Beating at 28,800 vph, it offers 45 to 55 hours of power reserve and is visible through a sapphire caseback — a finishing detail that collectors regard as one of Geneva's finest movement presentations at any price point. The rose gold case of the 5980/1R enhances the warmth of the gilded movement bridges beneath.

Among collectors, the 5980R occupies a distinct and respected position. It is frequently considered the more interesting companion to the ultra-hyped ref. 5711 and 5726 Nautilus pieces, offering far greater mechanical complexity while retaining the same sporting pedigree. Production volumes were always modest, and the rose gold variant in particular attracts buyers who want something less visible than stainless steel but more characterful than white gold.

On the market, the 5980/1R-001 commands serious premiums on the secondary market, routinely trading well above its already substantial retail price. Dybala's choice reflects a footballer who has clearly moved past entry-level luxury into considered, knowledgeable collecting — a player whose wrist is as sharp as his vision on the pitch.