Description
About the watch
When the Aquanaut appeared in 1997, it was a genuine surprise. Patek Philippe, which was the last independent manufacture in Geneva, custodian of the most conservative tradition in Swiss watchmaking, arrived with a rubber strap, a bold embossed dial, and a case that owed nothing to what had come before it in their own catalogue. Designed to attract a younger generation of collectors, it ended up being embraced by the established ones.
The ref. 5065A is the “Jumbo” of the Aquanaut, the 38 mm version introduced a year after the original 5060, with a sapphire caseback instead of the solid steel of its predecessor. It ran from 1998 to 2006, and is today the most sought-after of the first-generation Aquanauts: large enough to wear with presence, small enough to feel like a different era entirely compared to the 5167 that replaced it.
This example dates to circa 2004 and has been kept in superb condition. Inside sits the Calibre 315 SC, which carries the Geneva Seal, which at the time required more than 1,200 individual operations to produce.
The black composite dial, which mirrors the texture of the rubber strap below it, is in exceptional condition, showing no marks or dents. It is a perfect complement to this splendid timepiece.
Case & bracelet
The case and bezel are sharp and with a lot of material. They were not polished during the last service. Only a few light small scratches are visible on the bezel, and are shown on pictures. Take into account that these are much more visible on the pictures than in the flesh. The integrated deployant clasp is like new and shows no scratches.
Accessories & extras
The watch is delivered with its original papers, dating the sale back to 2004 in Hong Kong. It comes with all the documentation from the last service at Patek Philippe as well as the original booklets and card holder. Only the box is missing to have a complete full set, which can easily be found if needed.
Movement information
The movement is the original automatic caliber 315SC, which has been serviced by Patek in 2026.
In-person viewing
Our watches can be viewed in person in Lausanne, by appointment only. Although we do occasionally travel to meet clients in Geneva, Zurich or Bern, Lausanne remains the most convenient meeting place. Unfortunately, it is not possible to arrange visits outside Switzerland. To make an appointment, you can click on ‘Request information’ or contact us via WhatsApp.
