What is the appeal of the Aquanaut? Introducing the types and representative models

2021.09.09

Patek Philippe's popular model, the Aquanaut, is a masterpiece that combines sophisticated sporty looks with elegance. Here we will introduce the appeal of this top-quality watch, which embodies the tradition of the manufacture, and its representative models.


Basic knowledge of Aquanaut

It is said that if you are looking for the finest watches, you will eventually reach Patek Philippe.

To explore the appeal of the Aquanaut, a relatively new model among the many in the collection, let's start with some basic information.

What is Patek Philippe?

Patek Philippe's Geneva flagship salon. This building, which became the company's headquarters and workshop in 1853, has continued to function as Patek Philippe's flagship store for over 160 years. It underwent a complete renovation between 2004 and 2006, and now displays the company's entire current collection.

Patek Philippe is one of Geneva's oldest watchmakers, founded in 1839, and is a top-class watchmaker that is the pinnacle of quality for those who seek authenticity.

It is known as one of the world's three largest luxury watchmakers, along with Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet, and has established a special position that sets it apart among them.

The firm is known for its client list, which includes royalty such as Queen Victoria, as well as scientists and artists such as Einstein, Tchaikovsky, and Tolstoy.

Patek Philippe is also a pioneer, having invented the mechanism for winding and setting the time with a crown in 1845, and today develops its own movements, backed by strict quality control and advanced technical capabilities.

One of Patek Philippe's most popular models

The Aquanaut is one of Patek Philippe's most popular models, alongside the Calatrava, Nautilus, and Annual Calendar.

The Calatrava, released in 1932, is a renowned model synonymous with round luxury watches, while the Nautilus, released in 1976, embodies casual elegance with its octagonal bezel and porthole-inspired case.

The annual calendar, released in 1996, is a complex mechanism patented by Patek Philippe, and attracted attention for its high practicality, as the date only needed to be corrected once a year on March 1st.

The Aquanaut is a model released in 1997. Its appearance resembles a "rounded Nautilus" and features a "Tropical Band" strap that is waterproof, tow-resistant, and UV-resistant.


The appeal of Aquanaut

The Aquanaut is a model that exudes Patek Philippe's prestigious elegance and can be worn in any situation. To understand its appeal, let's understand the characteristics of the case, bezel, and strap.

Octagonal bezel and tropical band

Patek Philippe 5168

The "5168" comes with a midnight blue tropical band that matches the color of the dial. The case is made of white gold, and at 42.2mm, it is by far the largest in the collection. Automatic (Cal. 324 SC). 29 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 45 hours. 18KWG (diameter 42.2mm from 10 o'clock to 4 o'clock). Water resistant to 12 bar. 4,330,000 yen (excluding tax).

The Aquanaut not only features a highly accurate automatic movement, but also has an appealing sporty design.

The octagonal bezel, inspired by the Nautilus, has been rounded to give it a more modern look. The dial, which is the face of the watch, is finished with a three-dimensional embossing, making it highly visible and allowing you to read the time instantly.

The Tropical Band is made from composite material, a combination of two or more materials, a high-tech material used in products that require delicate control and strength, from aircraft and rockets to artificial bones and heart valves.

Tolerance and variation

Patek Philippe 5968A

The "5968A" features a striking contrast between the black dial and orange chronograph display. The see-through case back reveals the movement, engraved with the Patek Philippe Seal and Calatrava Cross. Automatic (Cal. CH 28-520 C). 32 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve: approximately 55 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 42.2mm from 10 o'clock to 4 o'clock). Water resistant to 12 bar. Price: 477 million yen (excluding tax).

The Aquanaut uses a proprietary tropical band that combines durability with a comfortable feel.

The strap is resistant to water, friction, and UV rays, and the case is water resistant to 12 bar, so you don't have to worry about wearing it in casual situations. Furthermore, because the strap is not made of metal, it is free from corrosion and allergies.

The wide range of strap colors is also not to be missed. In addition to stainless steel, the case is available in white gold and rose gold, allowing for a variety of looks to be created by combining it with the strap.

The Aquanaut also comes with a chronograph movement, and this complicated watch naturally has a sapphire crystal case back, allowing you to admire the beautifully finished and decorated movement.