Footballer Luka Modrić spotted wearing a Patek Philippe

During an official AC Milan promotion at Milanello, Croatia's national football team captain Luka Modrić was photographed wearing the Patek Philippe Nautilus Flyback Chronograph ref. 5980/60G-001 in 18k white gold. The midfielder signed a BMW X7 license plate bearing his name while sporting the luxury chronograph, which debuted at Watches & Wonders 2024 and has since earned the affectionate nickname 'Blue Jeans' among the collector community.

The ref. 5980/60G-001 represents Patek Philippe's latest evolution of the legendary Nautilus chronograph line. Housed in a 40.8mm 18k white gold case with integrated lugs, the watch features the brand's Caliber CHR 27-525 PS, a self-winding flyback chronograph movement with 325 components and a 65-hour power reserve. The opaline blue-grey dial showcases the signature ribbed Nautilus design, sunburst-finished sub-dials for elapsed time and running seconds, and applied hour markers. Water resistance stands at 120 metres, appropriate for a luxury sports chronograph rather than dive-oriented functionality.

What distinguishes the 5980/60G-001 is its textile strap ecosystem. Patek Philippe introduced a denim-inspired primary strap—a textile construction that departs from traditional leather or rubber—accompanied by an additional slate-grey fabric-pattern strap. This departure from the timepiece's metal bracelet heritage generated mixed reactions among traditionalists upon release. The combination of white gold case and casual textile straps creates an unusual juxtaposition that appeals to collectors seeking modern versatility without sacrificing prestige.

Modrić's choice reflects the watch's positioning as both achievement piece and contemporary lifestyle instrument. Known for his understated personal style, the footballer's pairing of the Nautilus with formal team attire demonstrates the ref. 5980/60G-001's adaptability across contexts. The white gold variant sits above the steel editions in Patek Philippe's hierarchy, signalling refined taste.

Retail pricing for the Patek Philippe Nautilus Flyback Chronograph ref. 5980/60G-001 starts around $75,000 USD. On the grey market, examples currently command $82,000–$95,000, reflecting both the model's newness and the sustained scarcity of Patek Philippe sports chronographs. Waitlists through authorized dealers extend 18–24 months, making pre-owned acquisition the realistic path for most collectors.