Just a few months before Gerald Génta passed away, Patek Philippe introduced a new version of the Aquanaut that has a lot of similarities to the original ‘Nautilus’ design.
Since 1997 the Aquanaut collection has been an important line of the Patek Philippe watch family. It was originally introduced as a younger and fresher version of the iconic Nautilus timepieces designed by the famous Gerald Génta.
The Nautilus already had a chronograph and a calendar (with moon phase) version, while the Aquanaut watches were relatively plain.
For travellers that love high-end sports watches, Patek Philippe created this new Aquanaut with an easy to operate GMT feature. With the two buttons on the left side of the case, one can simply push the upper button to increase the hours and the lower pusher to decrease the hours. Due to the pushers on the left side and the crown guard on the right side of the watch, it becomes very similar to the original Nautilus timepiece, which we love!
The movement is the PP caliber 324 S C FUS and has been developed and manufactured specifically for this Travel Time watch. Like many other GMT watches, this Aquanaut also features a day and night indicator.
There is no question that the initial Aquanaut design in 1997 wasn’t as mind-boggling or as innovative as the original Nautilus was in 1976. The introduction of the Aquanaut was well received, and only seemed to sell in Asia. We suspect that Patek Philippe couldn’t care less of course, as Asia is an important market for the company.
In the end, no matter which type of Patek Philippe you are wearing, you will receive nothing but approval for wearing a timepiece from this manufacturer from Geneva. This has nothing to do with your spending power, but everything with your fine taste for haute horlogerie.
Where the Patek Philippe Nautilus might look a bit outdated in the perception of some watch aficionados, this Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time has a fresher appearance due to the rubber strap with a structure that you’ll find on the dial as well, and large luminous numerals and hands. The polished and satinized 40.8mm watchcase is less extreme looking as the Nautilus and only reveals the 1970s design to those who know their icons.
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Specifications
Brand and model: Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time reference 5164A
Material: Stainless steel
Strap: Tropical rubber strap
Functions: Dual time zone mechanism indicating local and home time
Local and Water Resistance: To 120 m
Movement: Caliber 324 S C FUS, self-winding, diameter 31mm, height 4.82mm, power reserve of 45 hours
Price: $32,700.- USD
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Gallery
Source: Patek Philippe
What do you think of the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time? Leave a comment and let us know!
