Patek Philippe’s Aquanaut was the first model produced by the manufacture which is sold with a rubber strap. When released at Basel in 1997, the reference 5065A Jumbo (36mm diameter) was a limited edition watch of 1,000 timepieces, and sold in both stainless steel and 18k yellow gold. The watch had a sporty appeal and representative of the casual era but was a breed unto itself compared to the Nautilus, which had been released 20 years earlier. The model became a collector’s favourite and has been issued in a variety of sizes and movement types.

Made in 1998, the present example is part of a very limited number made for the Japanese market. Its blue dial with applied Arabic numerals and large luminous accents boasts a remarkably contemporary and playful look. 

Fresh to the market, it is offered in remarkably well-preserved condition of both case and dial. Considered only a handful of examples of this “Japan Edition” are known from the public market, it is safe to say this is a highly exclusive opportunity to own one of the most unusual and charismatic Aquanaut models ever produced.