Patek Philippe Returns to the Spotlight With Its First New Collection in 25 Years

Patek Philippe Returns to the Spotlight With Its First New Collection in 25 Years

Published: 23rd October 2024

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For the first time in a quarter century, Patek Philippe has introduced something entirely new to the watch world. At a significant event in Geneva, the maison unveiled the Cubitus Collection — a bold lineup characterized by an unexpected 45mm square case. It’s a daring move from a house long renowned for tradition, and one that is already reshaping the discussion around modern luxury timepieces.

With this release, Patek Philippe advances further into the sports watch arena, a territory it has traditionally approached with restraint. The Cubitus Collection, with its muscular design and commanding presence, indicates a readiness to challenge norms while remaining true to the brand’s reputation for precision and artistry. Enthusiasts are split: some commend the bold move, others question whether this truly represents the Patek they have always admired.

But make no mistake — this isn’t just another new model. After 25 years without a fresh collection, Patek Philippe has drawn a line in the sand. The Cubitus is more than a watch; it’s a statement that luxury horology can evolve while still honouring its heritage. The only question left is how history will judge this daring chapter in Patek’s legacy.

Highlights:

Patek Philippe introduces its first new collection in 25 years: the bold and contemporary line Cubitus.
Features three models with square cases and sunburst dials in platinum, steel, and two-tone finishes.
The platinum Ref. 5822P-001 features a new movement with immediate calendar functions.
Time-and-date models powered by the slim calibre 26-330 S C, featuring a 45-hour power reserve.
Prices start at USD 41,250, with global availability from October 18 and strong demand already building.

The so-called ‘leak’: Patek Philippe Cubitus spotted in Fortune Magazine | Image: Fortune

What Do We Know So Far?

That “leak” came through an advertisement in Fortune Magazine, offering the first tantalizing glimpse of what would soon become official. Was it an honest oversight or a cleverly timed marketing stunt? Nobody can say for sure, but its impact was undeniable. Retailers prepared for a flood of questions, and enthusiasts exchanged theories late into the night. Finally, under the lights at the Munich event, Thierry Stern stepped forward to put an end to the speculation once and for all. In front of an intimate crowd, he confirmed that the Cubitus Collection was real — and revealed it had been quietly in development for nearly four years.

Of course, the release didn’t come entirely out of the blue. Ever since 2021, keen-eyed enthusiasts had uncovered a trademark filing for the name “Cubitus,” sparking a wave of rumours that Patek Philippe was preparing something significant. From that point, speculation gained momentum on watch forums and Instagram feeds, with collectors analyzing every possible clue. By the time October 17 arrived, the watch community was already ready for a revelation — and Patek Philippe delivered in a way few will forget.

Patek Philippe’s Cubitus Collection

The highly anticipated Cubitus Collection has launched, marking one of Patek Philippe’s most daring moves in many years. The new series features a square-shaped case with rounded corners, creating a unique silhouette that stands out in the brand’s collection. Each dial is decorated with horizontal relief embossing, adding texture and depth to the watch’s design.

At the centre of the collection is the Cubitus Instantaneous Grand Date, Day and Moon Phases (Ref. 5822P-001). Crafted from platinum, this technical marvel is powered by a newly developed movement that allows for instantaneous displays — a feature designed to impress even the most seasoned collectors. It’s a striking blend of mechanical innovation and visual elegance, setting the tone for what the Cubitus line represents.

Alongside it are two time-and-date models that bring their own touch of refinement. One pairs two-tone steel and rose gold with a luminous blue sunburst dial, while the other offers a full stainless-steel case complemented by an olive-green sunburst finish. Together, they provide a more understated yet equally commanding alternative to the platinum complication, showcasing versatility within the collection.

In terms of dimensions, the Cubitus doesn’t hold back. Measuring 45mm diagonally, it carries undeniable wrist presence. The time-and-date models maintain a remarkably slim 8.3mm profile, while the more complex Ref. 5822P-001 rises slightly to 9.6mm. Achieving such thinness while packing in advanced complications is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about Patek Philippe’s commitment to blending bold design with technical mastery. The result is a collection that refuses to go unnoticed — a powerful statement from a brand that has once again redefined the conversation in haute horlogerie.

Movement & Mechanics

Inside the Cubitus, the real story begins. The two models with time and date are powered by the calibre 26-330 S C, a self-winding mechanical movement that combines a slim profile with dependable everyday performance. At only 3.3mm thick, it fits smoothly within the case yet still provides a 45-hour power reserve. Through the sapphire caseback, the movement subtly reminds you that even Patek’s most daring designs are rooted in traditional watchmaking craftsmanship.

The highlight, however, goes to the platinum Cubitus Instantaneous Grand Date, Day and Moon Phases (Ref. 5822P-001). For this model, Patek Philippe introduced the calibre 240 PS CI J LU, an elegant upgrade of the maison’s signature calibre 240. This new movement features the excitement of an instantaneous-jump calendar, shown in a double aperture, with day and moon-phase indicators that switch the moment the clock hits midnight. It’s more than just timekeeping — it’s theatre on the wrist.

The level of innovation here is astonishing. Patek Philippe filed six patents for this calibre, including advances like a tangential brake, a dual-lever correction system, and a flexible day corrector. Even the mechanism for positioning disk indications was re-engineered to ensure flawless precision. It’s a masterclass in pushing mechanical limits without sacrificing elegance.

Of course, such ambition raises eyebrows. Some say the Cubitus risks trying to do too much at once. But that’s the beauty of it: this isn’t a watch built to play it safe. After a 25-year wait, Patek Philippe has proven it can still deliver not only a bold design, but also the kind of movement that makes collectors lean in and take notice.

Dial Designs

Look beyond the bold square case, and you’ll discover dials that command just as much presence as the silhouette itself. Each Cubitus model showcases horizontal relief embossing, giving the dial a textured character that interacts beautifully with the light. The platinum Ref. 5822P-001 stands out not only because of its material but also because of its balanced layout, where the grand date sits in a clean double aperture, and the moon-phase display adds a subtle layer of romance. Despite its complexity, the design feels intentional and cohesive — technical yet elegant.

The two versions of time and date add colour to the conversation. One shines with a blue sunburst dial framed in two-tone steel and rose gold, while the other features a rich olive-green sunburst against stainless steel. Both dials are designed to shift and shimmer as the wrist moves, providing a modern touch while remaining unmistakably Patek Philippe. Together, they demonstrate that the Cubitus isn’t just a bold new case — it’s a canvas for dials that tell their own story.

Patek Philippe Cubitus Price & Availability

All three Patek Philippe Cubitus models officially launched in boutiques worldwide from October 18. The platinum highlight, the Cubitus Instantaneous Grand Date, Day, and Moon Phases Ref. 5822P-001, is priced at around USD $92,707.00. For those interested in the time-and-date options, the two-tone steel and rose gold Ref. 5821/1AR-001 is listed at USD $61,280, while the stainless-steel Ref. 5821/1A-001 is set at USD $41,250. With global demand already exceeding supply, collectors can expect waitlists to form quickly.