The Patek Philippe Aquanaut needs no introduction. Despite being an entry-level sports model, it is one of the most desirable and hardest-to-get watches from the Patek Philippe boutique today. While the well-known and cherished time-only Ref. 5167A represents the modern Aquanaut, astute collectors are increasingly turning their attention to the '90s model, the original Ref. 5065A, which is also the reference offered here today.
Launched in 1997 to attract a younger crowd, the Ref. 5065A was priced as an entry-level Patek Philippe made in stainless steel and equipped with a rubber strap. Marketed as a luxury sports watch and as a younger sibling to the Nautilus, it was not exactly loved when it was first released as it was seen as blasphemous to the supposedly elegant identity of Patek Philippe. With that being said, any big change always comes with its opposition, and the Ref. 5065A being the first-ever Patek Philippe to sport a rubber strap, it was no different.
Well, we all know how this story plays out. With the recent surge in appreciation for sports watches, today the Aquanaut is seen in a much different light, with the original Ref. 5065A, in particular, becoming one of the must-haves for any discerning Patek collector. The appeal lies in its historical significance; as the genesis of any important watch is always considered a key reference point and highly collectable.
The Ref. 5065A is a simple watch, featuring a 38mm stainless steel case that gives it a vintage feel compared to the current model. It showcases the unique 'grenade' dial with its prominent checkerboard pattern at the center. This distinctive motif extends to the strap, which features rectangular embossing that further enhances the watch's cohesive design identity.
Turn the Ref. 5065A over and you will find the in-house, self-winding Patek Philippe Cal. 315 SC powering this watch, displayed beneath its sapphire exhibition caseback. It hosts a 21-carat solid gold central rotor with excellent finishing throughout. It is also worth mentioning that the Cal. 315 SC holds a 48-hour power reserve on a full wind.
I am fairly certain you didn’t need to read all of the above for you to decide whether you love this Aquanaut Ref. 5065A or not. It is arguably one of the most in-demand, contemporary watches produced today and the perfect do-anything watch in my opinion. This particular example comes fitted on an army green rubber strap that adds to its vintage sporty look. Needless to say, the Aquanaut Ref. 5065A represents a significant milestone in Patek Philippe's history and is sure to remain a collectable classic.
