The 7 Most Expensive Patek Philippe Aquanaut Watches Sold At Auction

T he Patek Philippe Aquanaut series is renowned for its unique blend of sportiness and elegance, making it one of the most sought-after collections among watch enthusiasts. Over the years, Sotheby's has witnessed some remarkable sales of these timepieces, each with its own story and exceptional craftsmanship. Here is a look at the top seven selling Patek Philippe Aquanaut watches, with their respective histories and standout features.

1. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5650G Advanced Research Circa 2017, 693,000 CHF

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5650G sold for 693,000 CHF in May 2022. The model was released as part of the Patek Philippe brand's prestigious Advanced Research Limited Editions series, introduced in 2005. Limited to 500 pieces, this Patek Aquanaut edition showcased groundbreaking innovations aimed at enhancing the long-term functionality of the timepiece. It featured an optimized Spiromax® balance spring made from Silinvar® to improve the watch's precision. Additionally, it boasted a compliant mechanism crafted from traditional horological steel, used to set the second time zone.

This model was distinguished by its blue dial with an embossed Aquanaut pattern and an aperture at 9 o'clock that revealed the innovative flexible mechanism. The watch also included Patek Philippe’s signature time-zone function, displaying the local time, local date, a second time zone, and a day/night indicator for both time zones. Offered in good condition, the watch came with a complete set of accessories, including its Certificate of Origin, instruction manual, setting pin, and various presentation cases.

2. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5167/300G-010 Circa 2020, 228,600 CHF

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5167/300G-010 sold for 228,600 CHF in November 2023. Its release signaled a highly exclusive variant of the iconic Patek Aquanaut series. With its 40mm white gold case and a bezel adorned with 101 baguette-cut diamonds totaling 6.32 carats, this timepiece was a testament to Patek Philippe's expertise in both watchmaking and jewelry. Its rarity was underscored by the fact that only approximately 10 pieces were ever produced, and it was offered exclusively by invitation to some of the brand’s most esteemed collectors.

The Patek Aquanaut was accompanied by its full set of accessories and presented an opportunity to own a piece of horological history. The combination of its rarity, exquisite design, and the exclusivity of its availability made this watch a prized addition to any collection.

3. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968G-001 Circa 2021, 239,400 CHF

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968G-001 sold for 239,400 CHF in May 2022. Originally launched in 2021, this marked the first time the Patek Aquanaut series was introduced in white gold with a flyback chronograph function. The Patek Aquanaut model featured a striking midnight blue dial, complemented by a matching composite strap. The 60-minute counter at 6 o'clock mirrored the rounded octagonal shape of the bezel, maintaining the distinctive design language of the Aquanaut collection.

This particular watch was offered in excellent condition, complete with its Certificate of Origin, instruction manual, leather bifold, setting pin, and travel pouch. Its combination of innovative complications and classic design made it a standout piece within the Aquanaut lineup, appealing to both collectors and connoisseurs alike.

4. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5168G-010 Retailed by Tiffany & Co. Circa 2019, 201,600 USD

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5168G-010, often referred to as the Patek Khaki Aquanaut, was curated for auction in and sold for 201,600 USD. This Patek Aquanaut debuted in March 2019 and quickly became a coveted piece among collectors. This Patek Aquanaut model, with its larger 42.2mm case, followed the earlier 5168G blue edition released in 2017 to mark the 20th anniversary of the Patek Aquanaut. What set this particular watch apart was its dial stamped with the iconic Tiffany & Co. name, making it a rare and desirable example.

The watch was presented in excellent overall condition, complete with all original accessories, including the Patek Philippe presentation box, Tiffany & Co. outer packaging, and Certificate of Origin dated July 16, 2019. Its rarity and the association with Tiffany & Co. elevated its status among collectors, making it a highly sought-after timepiece.

5. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968A-001 Stainless Steel Circa 2018, 163,800 CHF

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968A-001 in stainless steel was sold for 163,800 CHF in November 2022. This was a bold and dynamic addition to the Patek Aquanaut series. It was the first model to incorporate a flyback chronograph function, a feature that highlighted Patek Philippe's innovative approach to watchmaking. The Patek Aquanaut was distinguished by its black embossed dial, accentuated with a vibrant orange chronograph hand and matching orange rubber strap, elements that were unique to this model.

In brand new condition, this watch was accompanied by a full suite of accessories, including its Certificate of Origin, original invoice, instruction manual, and additional orange rubber strap. Its striking design and innovative features made it an appealing choice for those seeking a modern and distinctive timepiece.

6. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968A-001 Stainless Steel Circa 2018, 1,134,000 HKD

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968A-001 was sold for 1,134,000 HKD in October 2022. This stainless steel model made a significant impact at auction. Launched as part of the Patek Aquanaut collection's evolution, this watch was designed to appeal to a younger, more dynamic audience while still paying homage to the iconic Nautilus design. The inclusion of a flyback chronograph complication was a first for the Aquanaut series and added a layer of functionality to its sporty aesthetic.

This Patek Aquanaut featured a bold orange chronograph hand that contrasted sharply with the black dial, a design choice that emphasized its modern and energetic character. Complete with its original accessories, including the Certificate of Origin, instruction manual, and presentation box, this watch was a testament to Patek Philippe's ability to blend tradition with contemporary design.

7. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5164R-001 Retailed by Tiffany & Co. Circa 2018, 138,600 USD

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Reference 5164R-001 was sold for 138,600 USD in December 2020. This model was introduced in 2011 as the first complicated Patek Aquanaut, featuring an innovative mechanism that allowed for easy adjustment of the second time zone via two pushers on the case. This model was instantly recognizable with its cushion-shaped case, textured anthracite dial, and rubber strap. What set this particular example apart was its association with Tiffany & Co., with their stamp prominently displayed on the dial, further enhancing its rarity and desirability.

The Patek Aquanaut was accompanied by a complete set of accessories, including the Patek Philippe presentation box, Certificate of Origin dated March 2, 2018, and Tiffany & Co. outer packaging. This unique combination of practical complications and exclusive retail provenance made this Aquanaut a prized piece in the world of luxury watches.

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut series remains one of the most desirable collections in the world of horology. These seven Patek Aquanaut watches, each with their unique features, histories, and exceptional craftsmanship, highlight the diversity and appeal of the Aquanaut line. Whether through innovative complications, rare materials, or exclusive provenance, these timepieces have secured their place as some of the top-selling Patek Aquanauts at Sotheby's, capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Why is the Patek Philippe Aquanaut so Expensive?

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut commands high prices due to its exceptional craftsmanship, exclusivity, and enduring appeal among collectors. Introduced in 1997 as a sportier alternative to the Nautilus, the Aquanaut quickly gained a devoted following for its modern design, featuring a rounded octagonal case and a signature "tropical" rubber strap. As a Patek Philippe timepiece, it upholds the brand’s legacy of precision and innovation, often housing highly sophisticated movements such as the self-winding Caliber 324 S C. Limited production and strong demand have made certain models—especially rare references and those in precious metals—highly coveted. At auction, unique variations, discontinued references, and pieces with provenance frequently achieve record-breaking prices, solidifying the Aquanaut’s status as one of the most valuable modern sports watches.

Advantages to Buying Patek Philippe Watches on the Secondary Market

1. Access

Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of Patek Philippe watches from its long established global network of sellers. As a leading marketplace, Sotheby's offers exceptional Patek Philippe timepieces, from iconic classics to rare references. Our watch specialists are dedicated to sourcing the most desirable Patek Philippe watch models from collectors around the world.

2. Flexibility

Sotheby’s offers multiple ways to purchase Patek Philippe watches, including online and in person at our locations in New York, Hong Kong, Zurich, Paris, and London. We also provide a concierge service to help source specific Patek Philippe watch models not available online.

3. Value

While authorized Patek Philippe boutiques offer their latest collections, finding specific models—especially those with strong collector demand—can be challenging due to availability constraints. Sotheby’s presents a curated selection of Patek Philippe watches, including rare and discontinued references, available for purchase without the need to visit multiple retailers. Shopping with Sotheby’s ensures access to exceptional Patek Philippe timepieces, from vintage icons to modern grail watches, all authenticated by experts.

4. Discovery

One of the greatest advantages of shopping in a global luxury marketplace is the chance to discover unique, limited-production Patek Philippe watches no longer available at retail. Our curated selection of Patek Philippe watches is continuously refreshed, ensuring that you’ll always find something new and exclusive.

Buy and Sell Patek Philippe Aquanaut Watches at Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Patek Philippe watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Patek Philippe models in every sale, including iconic pieces like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, Grand Complications, Aquanaut, and more in exceptional condition. Sotheby’s auctions feature an array of Patek Philippe timepieces, ranging from elegant vintage models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

Prices for Patek Philippe watches start around $15,000 for models like the Patek Philippe Calatrava and rise significantly for highly sought-after pieces. Iconic models such as the Grand Complications and Patek Philippe Nautilus often command starting prices of around $30,000, while rare collectible editions can exceed $150,000.

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