When Patek Philippe dropped the Cubitus collection last October, it felt like the entire watch world collectively gasped. After 25 years without a new collection, the legendary Swiss watchmaker unveiled a square-cased sports watch that immediately sparked heated debates among enthusiasts. We can still remember the avalanche of Instagram posts and heated forum discussions that followed. While some praised Patek’s bold new direction, others couldn’t get past two particular sticking points: the 45mm case size (practically dinner plate territory for many collectors) and what some saw as design elements borrowed too heavily from the iconic Nautilus.
Well, it seems like Patek was listening – or more likely, had this planned all along. Just five months after the initial launch, they’ve debuted two new Cubitus models at Watches & Wonders 2025 that address at least one of those criticisms head-on.
The Right-Sizing of a Controversial Icon
Let’s cut to the chase – the new Cubitus models now come in a much more wearable 40mm case. For reference, that’s measuring diagonally from 10 to 4 o’clock, which is how Patek calculates the size of this unconventional case shape.
At 8.5mm thick (a mere 0.2mm thicker than their larger siblings), these new models maintain the svelte profile that made even the 45mm versions surprisingly comfortable. But now with the more restrained width, they actually stand a chance of sliding under a dress shirt cuff – something the original Cubitus would struggle with unless you’re built like Dwayne Johnson.
The other major change? These new models come exclusively in precious metals: white gold with a blue-gray dial (ref. 7128/1G) and rose gold with a brown dial (ref. 7128/1R). The fact that Patek skipped steel altogether for this smaller version tells me they’re positioning these as the more elegant, dressy counterparts to the sportier 45mm models. It’s a clever strategy, covering different segments of the market while maintaining exclusivity.
That Unmistakable Cubitus DNA
Despite the downsizing, these watches are unmistakably Cubitus. They maintain the collection’s distinctive square case with those now-signature cut-off corners and those controversial “ears” that echo the Nautilus design language. The sunburst dials feature the same horizontal embossed pattern (another Nautilus reference that’s sure to trigger the purists), and the hands and applied hour markers match the case material – white gold or rose gold – with luminescent coating.
The date window at 3 o’clock is also framed in matching precious metal and actually looks properly integrated, rather than afterthought.
Same Movement, Different Vibe
Under the hood, nothing has changed. Patek has equipped these new models with the same self-winding caliber 26-330 S C that powers the larger Cubitus models. It’s visible through the sapphire caseback, where you can admire the 21K gold central rotor and the meticulous finishing that earned it the Patek Philippe Seal. With 45 hours of power reserve, it’s not breaking any records, but it’s a solid workhorse movement that’s proven its reliability across Patek’s lineup.
What we find most interesting is that Patek didn’t develop a shaped movement for the Cubitus – something that would have silenced many of the critics who viewed the round movement in a square case as a compromise. Perhaps that’s still coming in future iterations, but for now, they’re sticking with what works.
The Integrated Bracelet Experience
The bracelet is another element carried over from the original Cubitus – and yes, it still bears a striking resemblance to the Nautilus bracelet design. But now crafted in solid gold (white or rose to match the case), it takes on a whole new level of luxury. The contrast between the vertically satin-brushed outer links and the polished center links creates a beautiful play of light, while the lockable micro-adjustment system in the clasp is a practical touch that shows Patek is thinking about everyday wearability.
Spec Sheet
Case Size: 40mm (measured diagonally from 10 to 4 o’clock)
Case Thickness: 8.5mm
Case Material: 18K white gold (7128/1G) or 18K rose gold (7128/1R)
Dial Color: Blue-gray sunburst (white gold) or brown sunburst (rose gold)
Dial Pattern: Horizontally embossed
Water Resistance: 30m
Movement: Caliber 26-330 S C automatic
Power Reserve: 45 hours
Bracelet: Integrated 18K white or rose gold with lockable adjustment system
Limited Edition: No
Pricing & Availability
Both versions of the 40mm Patek Philippe Cubitus are priced at €76,000 (approximately $82,000), making them considerably more expensive than the steel 45mm model but a relative “value” in Patek’s precious metal sports watch lineup. They’re available now through Patek Philippe authorized dealers, though if the waitlists for the original Cubitus are any indication, you might want to start building that relationship with your AD yesterday.
Recap
Patek Philippe Cubitus 40mm
Patek Philippe addresses size concerns with two new 40mm Cubitus models in white and rose gold, featuring the same caliber 26-330 S C movement as their 45mm predecessors but with a more wearable profile and precious metal construction that shifts the controversial collection in a more elegant direction.
