Watch Paparazzi

Footballer Luka Modric spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Luka Modric was photographed celebrating the renewal of his contract with Real Madrid F.C. through 2022, and sharp-eyed watch spotters immediately clocked what was on his wrist: a Patek Philippe Nautilus Perpetual Calendar in 18k white gold, reference 5740G. The blue sunburst dial, framed by the Nautilus's signature porthole-inspired bezel with horizontal embossed stripes, is instantly recognisable — but the sub-dials tell you this is something far beyond a standard time-and-date Nautilus.

Introduced at Baselworld 2018, the Nautilus 5740G marked the first time Patek Philippe inserted a grand complication into the Nautilus lineage, which Gerald Genta designed in 1976. The reference is powered by calibre 240 Q, a self-winding movement built on the legendary ultra-thin 240 base — just 3.88mm thick — with a peripheral 22k gold micro-rotor that preserves dial legibility. Running at 21,600 vph (3Hz), it delivers a 48-hour power reserve and drives a complete perpetual calendar displaying date, day, month, leap year, and a moon phase accurate to one day's deviation over 122 years. Total case thickness lands at 8.42mm across the 40mm white gold case — a genuine engineering accomplishment for a complication of this depth.

For collectors, the 5740G occupies a rare intersection: sports-luxe aesthetics married to high complications. Patek Philippe produces the reference in extremely limited numbers, and white gold — the more restrained of the available metals — appeals to purists who prefer the blue dial to pop without the warmth of yellow or rose gold interfering. Waiting lists at authorised dealers routinely stretch years, making any allocation essentially theoretical for most buyers.

Modric is no stranger to high horology. The Croatian midfielder and 2018 Ballon d'Or winner has been spotted across multiple serious references over the years. Wearing the 5740G at what amounts to a career milestone moment reflects a collector's instinct — choosing a watch that marks the occasion rather than merely decorates the wrist.

At an official retail price of $126,500, the Nautilus 5740G already demands serious commitment. On the secondary market, however, demand consistently drives prices to roughly $240,000 — nearly double retail — underscoring both the scarcity of supply and the enduring strength of the Nautilus grand complication proposition.