Watch Paparazzi

Influencer Zainab Al Alwan spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Zainab Al Alwan, the UAE-based model and influencer with a substantial following across the Arab world, was recently photographed wearing the Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph 5980/1AR-001 — one of the most sought-after two-tone references in contemporary watchmaking. The sighting underlines the Nautilus family's enduring status as the ultimate crossover between haute horology and lifestyle culture, particularly across the Gulf states where Patek Philippe commands extraordinary brand loyalty.

Introduced at SIHH 2013, the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980/1AR-001 made history as the very first Nautilus Chronograph to be crafted in a mixed-metal configuration. The 40.5mm case pairs polished and brushed stainless steel with 18-karat rose gold on the bezel, crown, pushers, and bracelet center links — creating the signature warm-cool contrast that defines the reference. The chocolate-toned dial, gradating from deep brown at the center to lighter registers, is executed with Patek's characteristic restraint and depth. Date display sits at 3 o'clock, with subsidiary seconds and chronograph counters at 6 and 9.

Beneath the case, Caliber CH 28-520 C does the mechanical work. This self-winding movement features a column wheel, horizontal clutch, and flyback function — a technical specification more commonly found in complicated dress watches than in a sports-integrated chronograph. The movement beats at 28,800 vph and offers a power reserve of approximately 45 to 55 hours. Finishing across the bridges and rotor meets the standard Patek collectors expect at this price tier.

For collectors, the 5980/1AR-001 occupies rare territory. Two-tone Nautilus references have historically attracted premiums that outpace their single-metal counterparts, and the chronograph complication amplifies that dynamic considerably. Waitlists at authorized dealers stretch years, making grey-market access the practical reality for most buyers.

At an official retail price of approximately $67,000 USD, the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980/1AR-001 has consistently traded well above list on the secondary market, with current grey-market valuations sitting around $94,000 USD. Al Alwan's choice to wear this specific reference — not merely a Nautilus, but the two-tone chronograph — signals genuine knowledge of the collection rather than surface-level brand recognition.