Watch Paparazzi

Footballer James Maddison spotted wearing Patek Philippe

James Maddison, the technically gifted Leicester City and England international midfielder, has been spotted wearing one of the most sought-after references in the entire Patek Philippe catalogue — the Nautilus 5711/1R in 18k rose gold. It is a sighting that will turn heads well beyond the football pitch.

The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1R is the rose gold variant of Gerald Genta's landmark 1976 design, introduced alongside the steel 5711/1A as part of the reference's modern evolution. It features a 40mm 18k rose gold case with the Nautilus's signature horizontally embossed dial — here rendered in a warm salmon tone that pairs naturally with the case metal — protected by sapphire crystal and rated to 120 metres water resistance. Power comes from the manufacture Calibre 324 S C, a self-winding movement running at 28,800 vph with a 45-hour power reserve, offering hours, minutes, seconds, and date. Finishing throughout is to Patek's exacting standard: alternating polished and brushed surfaces on the integrated bracelet and case that demand hours of skilled hand-work.

From a collector's perspective, the 5711/1R occupies a fascinating position. While the steel 5711/1A has become the reference-point for watchmaking desirability in the modern era — and was famously discontinued in 2021 — the rose gold variant carries its own devoted following. It is less speculated upon than the steel, which paradoxically makes it a more considered, longer-term acquisition. Patek Philippe discontinued the entire 5711 family, making every reference within it a closed chapter and a fixed-supply asset.

Maddison has quietly built a reputation as one of football's more discerning watch enthusiasts. Choosing the 5711/1R rather than a louder tourbillon or a bejewelled piece reflects a collector's sensibility — prioritising horological credibility over visual noise, a trait that resonates strongly in watch circles.

At UK list price of approximately £45,540, the 5711/1R was already a serious investment at retail. On the secondary market, discontinued status has pushed grey-market values considerably higher, with clean examples regularly trading between $90,000 and $110,000 USD depending on condition, box, and papers. Maddison's wrist real estate is, by any measure, well allocated.