Introduction
Introduced in 1998, the Aquanaut was Patek Philippe's attempt at appealing to a younger audience. No longer featuring an integrated bracelet, the Aquanaut was first made in a rubber strap version. Initially released with a solid back, the 5065A-001 was the first model to feature a display back as well as a larger 38mm case. There are rumors that it was produced at the behest of former Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, with the dial design inspired by a grenade.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $20,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
38mm
Model
Aquanaut
Movement
Self-winding Caliber 315 SC
Reference
5065A-001
Bracelet
Black Rubber Strap
Year
Early 2000's
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The grenade inspired dial has incredible depth, and features luminova indexes that are a pleasing shade of off-white. Applied Arabic indexes as well as the hands, are both made of white gold.
THE MOVEMENT
The 5065A-001 was the first Aquanaut to showcase the improved caliber 315 SC movement. Earlier versions of the model however, had the caliber 330 SC. The 330 caliber was slightly thicker than the subsequent 315, which made for a more recessed positioning of the date wheel on the front side of the movement.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The overall condition is excellent. Luminova dial and hands match and are flawless. There is no aging to the luminous material and it appears white. There is a small ding in the mid case around 8 o'clock, but the rest of the dial and bezel only have small amounts of surface wear. Rubber strap looks like new and is uncut.
Our Perspective
Initially somewhat snubbed, the Aquanaut has now ascended to the pantheon of collectible and coveted sport watches of the modern era. This exact reference Aquanaut was the first Patek Philippe I'd ever bought, for the princely sum of $6,000 in 2000. I sure wish I'd kept it...
Eric Ku
Co-founder
