If you are a watch enthusiast, by now you would have seen the leak of Patek Philippe’s latest release, which happened just days before its official launch today. While unfortunate, this early glimpse into the Swiss manufacture’s first new collection in a quarter century has set the watch community abuzz with excitement and, as with any new launch, also garnered divided reactions.
But to really judge, one needs to experience the watches in person. Reporting from Munich, Germany, Tatler Singapore witnessed the unveiling of this new collection, Cubitus, where we received an early, hands-on experience with the three new timepieces.
In case you missed it: Discover the everlasting elegance of Patek Philippe's Twenty~4 collection
Patek Philippe Cubitus Instantaneous Grand Date, Day and Moon Phases Reference 5822P-001 with matching cufflinks
Patek Philippe’s president Thierry Stern was present to talk to invited media about Cubitus, and shared his take on the online comments of the collection: “There are a lot of haters but that’s always the case, it’s normal. It’s not bad, that means that I did my job by surprising them. And you will see, wait a few months and the difference will be there because once you have it on your wrist, you’ll find it’s a very cool watch to wear.”
It certainly is a distinctive design—Cubitus is the brand’s first square-shaped case with rounded corners and is a departure from traditional watch silhouettes. The innovative geometry is not just visually striking; it also enhances the watch’s wearability. At 45 mm, the Cubitus is on the larger side of case sizes, but wears surprisingly comfortably on the wrist—also thanks to its slim 8.3 mm profile. It is substantial and has a masculine yet elegant presence.
A baguette-cut diamond is set on the case of the Reference 5822P-001 at 6 o'clock
There are three models in the Cubitus collection, each catering to different styles and preferences. The most luxurious is the Cubitus Instantaneous Grand Date, Day and Moon Phases (Reference 5822P-001). This platinum timepiece houses the Caliber 240 PS CI J LU—a new movement for which Patek Phillipe has filed six patent applications. It features an instantaneous grand date display alongside day and moon phase indications, all changing in unison within an impressive 18 milliseconds.
Its blue sunburst dial is adorned with horizontal relief embossing and complemented by white gold details. Just like all other platinum Patek Philippe watches, this timepiece has a diamond but is baguette-cut for the first time, set into the bezel at 6 o’clock. The watch is secured to the wrist by a navy-blue strap with cream contrasting stitching in an ultra-resistant composite material embossed with a fabric motif.
Patek Philippe Cubitus Reference 5821/1AR-001
Fans of two-tone timepieces will enjoy the Cubitus Reference 5821/1AR-001, which combines steel and rose gold for a sleek, vintage look. As with the rest of the collection, alternating polished and vertical-satin-brushed finishes add to the refinement of the timepiece, which comes on a bracelet. Its blue sunburst dial with horizontal relief embossing is paired with rose gold details.
This model is powered by the caliber 26-330 S C self-winding movement, a variant of the base caliber 26-330 introduced in 2019. It includes a stop-seconds mechanism for precise synchronisation to within one second and several technical enhancements related to the winding system.
Patek Philippe Cubitus Reference 5821/1A-001
Finally, the Cubitus Reference 5821/1A-001 is the most minimal of the lot, featuring an understated yet attractive olive-green sunburst dial with horizontal relief embossing and white gold details and white gold details within a robust steel case. The integrated bracelet design ensures both flexibility and strength, making it suitable for various occasions while retaining its luxurious feel. The watch is also powered by the caliber 26-330 S C.
Patek Philippe has also introduced matching cufflinks for each Cubitus model. These accessories echo the watch design, featuring similar motifs, colours and materials.
The Cubitus collection is poised to become a popular addition to the esteemed brand’s lineup. With its innovative design, technical excellence, and distinct character, the collection should appeal to both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. As luxury consumers increasingly seek versatile timepieces that blend elegance with a sporty edge, the Cubitus models are sure to capture attention and admiration, solidifying their place in Patek Philippe’s storied legacy.
NOW READ
Visit A. Lange & Söhne’s 30 Years of the Lange 1 exhibition in Singapore
A closer look at Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak Concept Split‑Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date