While the Nautilus marked Patek Philippe’s departure from tradition, the Aquanaut was an even bolder step in that direction, combining a stainless-steel case with a geosphere motif dial and rubber strap. Launched at Baselworld in 2007, this Aquanaut reference 5167A had an updated 324 SC calibre from the original Aquanaut, and the case diameter was updated to 40mm. The 5167A also features a contoured “tropical” leather strap, which sits flush to the case, and revised dial design which allowed the numerals to sit more comfortably around the dial (like the ref. 5165) by removing the index marker ‘3’, as seen in earlier versions.

Manufactured in 2016, this watch also has a rare double-signed dial by Tiffany & Co., the original retailer. Double-signed dials from Patek Philippe have a special appeal to collectors, given their exclusivity. Made available by a select group of retailers around the world, few are more coveted today than Tiffany & Co. Examples like this reference 5167 with "Tiffany" on the dial are a testament to the deep bond shared by retailer and manufacturer.

The Aquanaut re-interprets a number of signature design elements from the Nautilus - most notably, the octagonal rounded bezel. It displays a high level of finishing, with brushed surfaces on the case front, and polished, bevelled edges. The steel, three-piece case provides water resistance up to 120m, further featuring a screw-down crown. Meanwhile, the black checkerboard dial has luminova-filled index markers and is embossed with silver applied numerals, matching the texture on the rubber strap. 

The movement inside the reference 5167A is the self-winding calibre 324 SC, introduced in the early 2000s, as a marked improvement on calibre 315. The calibre beats at 28,800 A/h for improved accuracy, with a larger solid-gold rotor for increased power-generation - finished in classic Patek Philippe style, with circular Geneva stripes. The power-reserve is 45 hours.

This Patek Philippe 5167A-001 Aquanaut is accompanied by its Certificate of Origin, which confirms its sale in September 2016 (sold by Tiffany & Co.). It comes with its original black rubber strap, as well as its inner and outer Patek Philippe and Tiffany & Co. boxes.

Closer look

Condition

This Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167A is in excellent condition throughout. The case, bezel, and lugs show virtually no signs of imperfections throughout. Light superficial marks are found on the polished portions of the case, though they are only visible under close inspection. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfection. 

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.