Anaroku's Patek Philippe Aquanaut collection offers a fascinating look into the nuances of collecting based on wrist size and aesthetic preference. His journey highlights how even a comprehensive collection can still leave room for a highly desired reference, particularly when a new arrival is imminent. This post captures the unique joy and occasional 'cruelty' of high-end watch collecting.

My wrists are thin, so I don’t own any of the larger sizes from 5168 onwards. I have two pairs each of 5065 and 5066, and then 5164, 5165, and 5167.

I’m wearing my 5066j today.

5066 J&A

5065 A&1J
The 5065 and 5165 are the perfect size for my wrist.

From left to right: 5164R, 5167A, 5165A (Inspired by Paul McCartney)

I think the hobby of collecting watches is cruel. Because even though I own a 5164R and a 5167A, I still want a 5167R (from a photo of the quattro).

Take a look, even though they’re both 5167s, the R model exudes a certain allure that the A model lacks (from a photo of quattro).
And yesterday, I eceived notification from AD that 5167R has arrived !!!
I created this thread because I wanted you to understand this joy.
About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5065
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut reference 5065 represents the first generation, mid-size variant within the Aquanaut collection. Produced from 1998 to 2007, this 38mm model positioned itself as a contemporary sports watch offering within the Patek Philippe lineup, featuring the collection's characteristic composite strap construction.
The 5065 utilizes a stainless steel case measuring 38mm in diameter with a smooth bezel and sapphire crystal. Water resistance extends to 120 meters. The automatic caliber 315 SC movement provides 45 hours of power reserve. The watch displays a black dial and is fitted with Patek Philippe's signature black composite strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking an entry point into Patek Philippe's sports watch category from the brand's earlier production period. The mid-size 38mm case dimension and stainless steel construction make it accessible compared to precious metal variants, while the nine-year production span from 1998 to 2007 establishes it as the foundational Aquanaut reference for collectors focused on the model's development trajectory.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 315 SC
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Medium Ref. 5066
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Medium Reference 5066
The reference 5066 represents the first generation Aquanaut in a 36mm case size, positioned as the medium variant within the initial Aquanaut series. This stainless steel sports watch was produced from 1998 to 2007, establishing the foundational specifications for the Aquanaut line in its original form.
The 36mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber 315 SC movement, providing 45 hours of power reserve. The watch features a black dial beneath a sapphire crystal, with a smooth bezel configuration. Water resistance extends to 120 meters, complemented by a composite rubber strap secured with a deployant clasp.
Reference 5066 appeals to collectors seeking entry into Patek Philippe's sports watch category, offering the brand's mechanical watchmaking in a contemporary case size. The nine-year production run and stainless steel construction position this reference as an accessible option within the Patek Philippe range, suitable for collectors prioritizing wearability and modern proportions.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 315 SC
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 36 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5164
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut reference 5164 is a travel time model within the Aquanaut collection. This specific reference is identified as 5164A-001, indicating a steel case.
The 5164A-001 features a rubber strap. No further details regarding the case material, crystal, or movement are provided.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Patek Philippe Aquanaut with a travel time complication and a rubber strap, suitable for various climates.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 324 S C FUS
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 40.8 mm
- Dial
- Black embossed
- Water Resist.
- 120 meters
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5165
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut reference 5165 represents the 40mm stainless steel iteration within the Aquanaut collection. This reference was produced from 2007 to 2021, establishing it as a core offering in Patek Philippe's steel sports watch lineup. The 5165 features a black dial configuration.
The 40mm stainless steel case incorporates a smooth bezel and sapphire crystal, providing 120 meters of water resistance. The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 324 S C, delivering a 45-hour power reserve. The timepiece is fitted with a composite rubber strap featuring an embossed checkerboard pattern.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a steel Patek Philippe sports watch with contemporary proportions. The 5165's 14-year production run and black dial variant position it as an accessible entry point into the Aquanaut collection, offering the combination of stainless steel construction and Patek Philippe's automatic movement technology in a modern 40mm case size.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 324 S C
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5167
The Reference 5167 represents the 40mm stainless steel iteration within Patek Philippe's Aquanaut model line. Introduced in 2007 and remaining in current production, this reference features a black dial and establishes the standard sizing for the steel Aquanaut offering.
The 40mm stainless steel case houses the automatic Caliber 324 S C movement, providing 45 hours of power reserve. The watch incorporates a sapphire crystal and smooth bezel configuration. Water resistance extends to 120 meters, while the distinctive composite rubber strap displays an embossed check pattern that complements the case design.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking contemporary Patek Philippe sports watch execution in stainless steel. The 5167 offers entry into the Aquanaut model range while maintaining the manufacturing standards associated with the Geneva manufacture. Its ongoing production status ensures availability through authorized channels for both new collectors and those expanding existing collections.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 324 S C
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 120m
- Crystal
- Sapphire