Most Nautilus owners bought the watch for the bracelet, then found it is a hot, heavy thing to wear in summer. Putting a strap on is simple once you know one rule: if your Nautilus came on the steel bracelet, you need an adapter; if it came on leather or rubber, you do not. The bracelet is integrated into the case, so there is no ordinary lug to hang a strap on. The adapter fills that gap and gives the strap a clean, flush connection.
Which Nautilus references take these straps
Our Nautilus straps are listed for the 5711, 5712, 5726, 5727, 5980 and 5811. The cases are close in size but not identical:
| Reference | Case (10 to 4 o’clock) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5711/1A | 40 mm | Time and date, 2006 to 2021 |
| 5712/1A | 40 mm | Moon phase, power reserve; same case as the 5711 |
| 5726 | 40.5 mm | Annual calendar |
| 5980 | 40.5 mm | Flyback chronograph |
| 5811/1G | 41 mm | White gold successor to the 5711, from 2022 |
Not sure about yours? Send us the reference before you order. The 5727 and some precious-metal versions vary, and a quick check is better than a return.
How the adapter works
The Nautilus adapter seats in the case opening where the bracelet's first link used to sit. It is machined to the 13 mm case dimension and takes a 25 mm strap. Pick the finish that matches your case: silver for steel and white gold, gold for yellow gold, rose gold for rose gold. Nothing is drilled or glued, and the watch is unchanged when you take it out.
If you order a strap and tick "adapter", it comes in the box. If your Nautilus is on leather already, skip it.
Rubber or leather?
- Rubber is the practical choice. The Nautilus is water resistant to 120 m in its steel 5711 form, and a rubber strap lets you actually use that. It is lighter than the bracelet, does not pull arm hair, and rinses clean. Our black rubber Nautilus strap is the one that works with every dial; the dark blue picks up the blue gradient dial of the 5711/1A-010. Lifetime warranty on the rubber.
- Leather makes the Nautilus look dressier, closer to the precious-metal versions Patek sells on straps. The blue leather strap is the pick for a blue dial. Keep it out of the pool. 1-year warranty.
Both run 115 mm + 75 mm, which suits most wrists. Our guide to bracelet vs strap goes deeper on comfort, heat and weight if you are still deciding.
Fitting step by step
- Lay the watch face down on a soft cloth.
- Remove the bracelet at the case with a fine tool. Our Patek Philippe strap tool is made for this.
- Fit the adapter into the case opening, then the strap onto the adapter with the supplied spring bars.
- Check both sides: the strap should sit flush with no gap at the case.
Keep the bracelet in a pouch with every link. It is worth a lot of money on its own, and you will want it back for the winter.
FAQ
Do I need an adapter for a Nautilus strap?
Only if your Nautilus came on the steel bracelet. If it came on leather or rubber, the strap fits straight onto the case.
What width is a Nautilus strap?
Our Nautilus straps are 25 mm wide where they meet the case, and the adapter matches the 13 mm case dimension.
Does fitting a strap change the watch?
No. The adapter sits in the opening where the bracelet was and comes out again. Keep the bracelet and you can go back at any time.
Which warranty applies?
Rubber Nautilus straps have a lifetime warranty on the rubber. Leather straps have a 1-year warranty.
Also own an Aquanaut? Read our Aquanaut strap guide, or see all Patek Philippe straps. Helvetus is not affiliated with Patek Philippe.
