Patek Philippe [Aquanaut][Aquanaut]
Well, this time I would like to talk about the Aquanaut. The first model of the Aquanaut was the "Ref. 5060A" released in 1997.
Compared to the current model, the small 35mm medium case has a sporty image, but when worn, it has a refined presence that is different from Rolex. The dial was also characterized by its deep embossing. This model also had a solid back, so the movement could not be seen. The "Ref. 5060A" was discontinued less than a year after its release, and combined with its position as the first Aquanaut, it is a model that is difficult to find nowadays. I remember that when the Aquanaut was not yet as popular as it is today, it was sold for around 700,000 to 800,000 yen with all accessories.
The Ref. 5060A only lasted a year, but the Ref. 5065A(/1A) and Ref. 5066A(/1A) were released the following year in 1998. The difference between the two models is the case diameter and the movement they are equipped with; the Ref. 5065A(/1A) is slightly larger at 38mm (large) and is equipped with the Cal. 315 SC.
* "Ref.5065/1A"
On the other hand, the "Ref.5066" is a 35mm (medium) model that inherited the "Ref.5060A" and is equipped with the same "Cal.330 SC" as the "Ref.5060". The embossing on the dial is slightly shallower, giving the overall impression a more subdued look and improving the visibility of the indexes. Another major change is that the movement can now be seen through the use of a sapphire crystal back.
* "Ref.5066/1A"
The "Ref. 5066" and "Ref. 5065" lineup consists of two models: a composite material band model commonly known as tropical, and a bracelet model, and is available in SS (stainless steel) and YG (yellow gold) cases.
The stainless steel case model was released in 1998, and the yellow gold case model was added the following year in 1999. Our store has a track record of selling stainless steel and yellow gold case models, but the yellow gold case models are not widely available on the market, and the 38mm case and original yellow gold bracelet model, "5065/1J," in particular, is hard to come by these days, and it is difficult to obtain a model in good condition with all accessories included.
*For more details, click here↓↓↓
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Large Size 18KYG Ref.5065/1J Automatic The size of 34mm is just right, and the rounded octagonal case...
At around the same time, the "Ref. 5064A" with a medium-sized stainless steel case and a Qz (quartz) movement and the slightly smaller ladies' model "Ref. 4960A" were also available. As both were Qz movements, the "Ref. 4960J" was also added, a ladies' model with a yellow gold case and a solid back.
Japan exclusive
At the same time as the release of the "Ref. 5066A" in 1998, the "Ref. 5066A-010" was released for the Japanese market in a limited run of 1,000 pieces, featuring a vivid blue dial and a striking blue tropical band. Nowadays, it is rarely seen even on the second-hand market, and prices are rising.
bonus
Finally, although it is not a well-known model, there is the "Ref. 5060SJ," which is an adaptation of the original "Ref. 5060A" model with a yellow gold case, a see-through back, a black dial with Roman indexes, and a luminous leaf band.
This model has a face reminiscent of the Nautilus Ref. 3800/1A, and although it is a sports model compared to the Aquanaut mentioned above, it is an interesting model that also exudes a dressy and elegant impression.
When you hear the name "Aquanaut," you inevitably think of stainless steel, but knowing that models like these exist will broaden your purchasing options and allow you to enjoy searching for a watch.
Next time, I'll take a closer look at the current model that everyone is interested in.
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