Footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic spotted wearing a Patek Philippe

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was photographed wearing a Patek Philippe Nautilus Annual Calendar Moon Phase in stainless steel, reference 5726/1A, on the occasion of signing a contract extension with AC Milan — a moment as precisely calculated as the watch's own mechanical calendar mechanism.

The Nautilus 5726/1A is built around Patek Philippe's caliber 324 S QA LU/206, a self-winding movement running at 28,800 vph with a 45-hour power reserve. Its annual calendar display — a complication patented by Patek Philippe in 1996 — distinguishes between months of 30 and 31 days automatically, requiring correction only once a year at the end of February. The blue horizontal-stripe dial also incorporates a moon phase display accurate to one day's error every 122 years, alongside retrograde date, day, and month subdials. The 40.5mm steel case follows Gerald Genta's iconic porthole-inspired design from 1976, with the integrated bracelet and octagonal bezel that define the Nautilus silhouette.

Among collectors, the 5726/1A occupies a particularly respected position. It is widely regarded as the most complication-rich reference in the Nautilus line in steel, and its combination of a sporting case with genuine horological depth — annual calendar, moon phase, and an in-house movement — commands serious attention. Unlike some Nautilus references that have become flashpoints for speculation, the 5726/1A retains a reputation grounded in mechanical substance rather than hype alone.

Ibrahimovic's affinity for statement watches is well documented, and the Nautilus 5726/1A is a measured, knowledgeable choice — not a watch that shouts, but one that quietly signals a collector's eye. Choosing it for a milestone professional moment underscores its status as a modern dress-sport crossover icon.

On the grey market, the Nautilus 5726/1A commands a significant premium over its retail price, which sits at approximately £38,710 in the UK. Secondary market values have fluctuated but consistently reflect the scarcity and desirability of steel Nautilus references with grand complications. For serious collectors, it remains one of the most coherent arguments for steel sports watchmaking at the highest level.