Watch Paparazzi

Singer Ed Sheeran spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Ed Sheeran has been spotted wearing one of the most talked-about wristwatches of the past decade: the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A-018, better known as the 'Tiffany & Co.' limited edition. Produced in a run of just 170 numbered pieces to commemorate Tiffany & Co.'s 170th anniversary, this reference represents the final chapter of the legendary 5711 reference before Patek Philippe discontinued the stainless steel Nautilus line in 2021.

The 5711/1A-018 is built around the caliber 26-330 S C, a self-winding movement beating at 28,800 vph with a 45-hour power reserve, housed in the iconic 40mm stainless steel case designed by Gérald Genta in 1976. What sets this particular reference apart from the standard 5711/1A-010 is its distinctive Tiffany Blue dial — a proprietary hue synonymous with the New York institution — stamped with dual branding from both Patek Philippe and Tiffany & Co. That co-signed dial is the detail that drove collectors into a frenzy.

The collector significance of the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A-018 is difficult to overstate. When Patek announced the discontinuation of the 5711 in stainless steel, demand for existing references was already stratospheric. Adding a 170-piece limitation and Tiffany's co-branding created a perfect storm. The inaugural example, lot one of 170, sold at Phillips Geneva Watch Auction in December 2021 for CHF 6.5 million — approximately $7.3 million at the time — with all proceeds going to charity.

Ed Sheeran is no casual watch enthusiast. The British singer-songwriter has assembled a serious collection spanning Richard Mille, Rolex, and multiple Patek Philippe references. Owning a 5711/1A-018 places him firmly in the ultra-collector tier — this is not a watch you stumble into; it requires both the right connections and the willingness to pay far above list price.

Officially retailing at approximately $2,900,000 USD, the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A-018 'Tiffany & Co.' commands a grey market premium that fluctuates but has historically settled well above retail. With only 170 examples in existence and zero prospect of reissue, liquidity remains strong and long-term value appears structurally supported.