Introducing: The Downsized Patek Philippe Cubitus — Now In A 40mm Size
When Patek Philippe announced the Cubitus in October 2024, the collection was met with a mixed response. Among the points of criticism from the enthusiast crowd was that the 45mm size was on the large side, to put it mildly. Well, Patek Philippe already had an ace up its sleeve ready to be played at this year’s Watches and Wonders. Behold the 40mm Patek Philippe Cubitus three-hander. Is this the Cubitus you have all been waiting for?
The new Cubitus comes in two flavors — white gold with a blue-gray dial (ref. 7128/1G) or rose gold with a brown dial (ref. 7128/1R). Both feature sunburst effects and the characteristic teak-deck striping. Also, both watches are set at “price on request.” Let’s have a quick first look!
The new 40mm Patek Philippe Cubitus
I can keep this introduction extremely simple: these two new models share their spec sheets with the earlier stainless steel and two-tone three-hand Cubitus models — well, except for their dimensions and materials, of course.
You get the same square shape with its cut-off corners. You get the strong Nautilus vibes from the ears, dial, and bracelet. The date at 3 o’clock and the 30m water resistance also remain untouched. Inside ticks the same automatic caliber 26-330 S C. This makes sense as it is a bit soon to see a switch to a much-anticipated shaped alternative. The movement has a 21K gold central rotor and 45 hours of autonomy once the rotor stops turning. It ticks at 28,800 beats per hour and bears the Patek Philippe seal.
The watch’s 40mm specification comes from the diagonal measurement between 10 and 4 o’clock. This Cubitus case also offers an 8.5mm thickness. This means it is slightly thicker than the 45mm version, which has an 8.3mm profile. The white gold or rose gold bracelet features the same micro-adjustable clasp as its bigger siblings.
Should Patek have led with this?
Interestingly, the sophomore Cubitus introduction seems much more palatable to a broad audience than the debut collection. It makes me wonder if Patek Philippe should have led with this duo. The classic material and color combinations in base-model execution seem like a perfect introduction pair.
This reasoning, however, is from the perspective of an over-sensitive watch enthusiast. From a commercial perspective, Patek’s route of choice makes much more sense. After all, the original Patek Philippe Cubitus felt like a slap in the face and, consequently, caused a big stir. I cannot say I know Patek’s president, Thierry Stern, personally, but he strikes me as an “any publicity is better than no publicity” character.
Whether that is the best route for an old-world house like Patek remains to be seen. That slap in the face caused some backlash. Mr. Stern’s aggrieved reaction to the criticism cost the brand some goodwill. It makes me wonder whether a slightly more conservative release like today’s would have softened sentiments all around. In any case, here we are.
Initial impressions of the 40mm Patek Philippe Cubitus
I have to admit that I was one of the critics of the first Cubitus models. Seeing Patek Philippe take the watch down this path is a relief. I must say, I like them both. Still, that may be due to me slowly adjusting to a new view of Patek Philippe after last October’s events. Maybe relief isn’t the emotion you should feel when presented with one of the most notable watchmaker’s prime sports models in precious metals. On a more objective level, I do feel that the design works better in the proportions shown here. Somehow, everything falls into place a bit better. I honestly do like what I am seeing.
I am eager to go hands-on with these new models. After my recent love affair with a vintage Nautilus, I am curious to see if these are worthy successors. Time will tell!
What do you think of the new 40mm Patek Philippe Cubitus? Let us know in the comments section below!
