Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968A

I’ve written a lot about my favorite watch, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A. The dial, the functionality, the comfort of the thin case, and the rubber strap – this watch checks all the boxes for me. But today, I’d like to talk about this watch’s bigger, somewhat more mature, older brother. Take a look at the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968A.

This watch is undoubtedly cool. The not-so-subtle orange chronograph displays, centered by the large orange second hand, provide just the right amount of contrast against the black dial. Originally fitted with the classic black Aquanaut rubber strap, this watch also includes an additional strap in orange.

It’s not unlike Patek to show some character in a timepiece with bright, vibrant, contrasting colors. But, in typical Patek Philippe fashion, the orange is simply named “orange.” No fancy names like Lamborghini’s “Arancio California” or Porsche’s “Signal Orange” or “Tangerine.” Patek sticks with the classic “Orange,” and this is one of the reasons I’m so drawn to Patek. I love the subtlety and the matter-of-fact approach, even when they take bold chances.

The 5968A features a 42.2mm stainless steel case, giving it a robust yet elegant presence on the wrist. It definitely wears larger than the 5164A, standing about 1.5mm taller and 1.5mm wider in diameter. The embossed pattern on the dial transitions from gray at the center to a deep black at the edges, adding depth and dimension. The orange accents aren’t just eye-catching; they’re a nod to the sporty nature of the Aquanaut series. The additional orange strap further emphasizes its playful yet sophisticated character.

Inside the 5968A ticks the caliber CH 28-520 C, a self-winding flyback chronograph movement that marries traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. The flyback chronograph feature allows you to reset and start the timer with a single press, making it perfect for timing anything from a yacht race to your morning espresso shot. Personally, while this functionality looks really cool, it doesn’t quite match the practicality of the 5164A’s Travel Time function, which I actually use when traveling across time zones. I don’t find myself timing too many yacht races, but it’s still a fantastic feature to have – just in case. 😅

This watch is also water-resistant up to 120 meters, true to its sporty design, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The combination of durability and elegance is what makes the Aquanaut Chronograph stand out.

Despite its larger size, the 5968A maintains a comfortable fit, thanks to its ergonomic design and lightweight materials. The rubber strap not only adds to the comfort but also makes it ideal for everyday wear. This watch is versatile enough to transition seamlessly from a day at the beach to a night out in the city.

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968A is a perfect blend of sportiness and sophistication. It’s a watch that makes a statement without screaming for attention – unless, of course, you want it to with the bright orange strap 😉. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, the 5968A offers something truly special. It’s a testament to Patek Philippe’s commitment to innovation and elegance, wrapped up in a design that’s both bold and timeless.

So, what do you think? Is the 5968A a watch you’d add to your collection? Let me know in the comments below or by responding to this email!