Patek Philippe Aquanaut 40.8mm 5167A-001
A slim stainless-steel Aquanaut with a black embossed dial and composite Tropical strap for understated, contemporary versatility.
$52,995
PATEK PHILIPPE AQUANAUT
Introduced in 1997, the Aquanaut combines a rounded octagonal case with an embossed dial and fitted composite strap or bracelet. The range now includes time-and-date, Travel Time, chronograph, annual-calendar, and high-complication references in steel and precious metals.
Model History & Buyer Guide
Aquanaut: Modern Patek Philippe, Built Around Fit and Function
A Casual Patek Since 1997
The Aquanaut launched in 1997 with a rounded octagonal case, embossed dial, and fitted composite Tropical strap. Early reference 5060 and the larger 5065 led to the 5167 generation that defines the modern time-and-date model.
The strap is integral to the design and cut to fit. A short used strap may not fit a new owner, while an incorrectly cut or aftermarket strap changes both comfort and replacement cost.
Travel Time, Chronograph, and Luce
Reference 5164 adds Travel Time with local/home indicators; 5968 is a flyback chronograph; precious-metal 5168 expands the case to 42.2 mm; Aquanaut Luce includes smaller and complicated executions.
Steel demand creates large premiums, but gold, dial color, complication, and discontinued status can reverse simple assumptions. Confirm reference, case metal, buckle, and whether the delivered strap color is factory-correct.
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Price Guide
Indicative secondary-market ranges in US dollars, researched from current market estimates and live dealer listings and updated August 2026. These are not fixed valuations: condition, originality, production year, service history, and completeness can move an individual watch outside the range.
| Reference | Configuration | Typical Pre-Owned Price | Market Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5167A | Steel time-and-date on composite strap | $63,000 — $77,000 | The core modern Aquanaut benchmark |
| 5164A | Discontinued steel Travel Time | $85,000 — $115,000 | Pusher condition and full set are important |
| 5968A | Steel flyback chronograph | $120,000 — $165,000 | Strap set and condition influence price |
| 5168G | 42.2 mm white gold | $75,000 — $105,000 | Blue and green references trade differently |
Understanding Aquanaut
Case size, complication, and the condition and length of the fitted strap are practical—not merely cosmetic—differences.
| Feature | Function | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Composite strap | Resists wear, water, and UV exposure | Must be cut correctly for the owner’s wrist |
| Travel Time | Shows local and home time with day/night indicators | Pushers allow practical time-zone changes |
| Rounded octagon | Echoes the Nautilus in a distinct case | Polished and satin transitions reveal prior refinishing |
Reference-Level Buying Checklist
Use the exact reference—not the family name alone—to verify the following points before purchase.
| Check | What to Verify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Strap and clasp | Length, cut, cracking, buckle reference, and spare straps | Replacement and fit can add immediate ownership cost |
| Case edges | Original brushed/polished geometry | Rounded edges indicate material removed by polishing |
| Complications | Travel pushers or chronograph reset and indicators | Function faults require manufacture-level expertise |
Frequently Asked Questions
About Aquanaut
Is an Aquanaut simply a Nautilus on rubber?
No. It has its own case, dial, strap integration, reference history, and complications, despite sharing a modern Patek sports-watch context.
Can an Aquanaut strap be resized larger?
Once cut it cannot be lengthened. A replacement strap may be needed if the existing halves are too short.
What is Aquanaut Luce?
Luce is a related Aquanaut line with its own sizes, gem-setting, materials, and increasingly complex functions; it should be evaluated by exact reference.
NYC Diamond District
Looking for a Specific Aquanaut Reference?
Our specialists can compare references, movements, condition, service history, and set completeness. Contact Atlas Luxury for current Aquanaut availability or help sourcing a particular configuration.