The Nautilus and the Aquanaut are Patek Philippe's two sports watches, and they are among the most desired watches in the world. They share a family resemblance, a case shape and a manufacturer, but they are different watches for different buyers.
This comparison looks at the Patek Philippe Nautilus vs Aquanaut on what decides a purchase: history, design, bracelet or strap, size, water resistance and how each one wears day to day.
Two generations of Patek sports watches
The Nautilus was introduced in 1976, designed by Gérald Genta, the designer behind the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Its rounded octagonal bezel and the "ears" on either side of the case were inspired by a ship's porthole. The first reference, the 3700, was a large steel watch for its time and is known to collectors as the "Jumbo".
The Aquanaut followed in 1997. It took the Nautilus case shape in a softer, more contemporary direction and paired it with a checkerboard-patterned dial and a strap in a composite material that Patek calls "tropical". It was designed to appeal to a younger, more casual buyer.
Nautilus vs Aquanaut at a glance
| Nautilus | Aquanaut | |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1976 | 1997 |
| Designer | Gérald Genta | Patek Philippe |
| Dial | Horizontal embossed lines | Checkerboard (grid) pattern |
| Usual attachment | Integrated metal bracelet | "Tropical" composite strap (bracelets exist on some models) |
| Character | Dressy sports watch, the classic | Casual, modern, lighter on the wrist |
| Typical case sizes | About 40 mm (time-only steel 5711) | 40 mm (5167) and 42 mm (5168) |
| Water resistance (typical) | 120 m | 120 m |
| Best for | A versatile luxury watch for every day | A relaxed, sporty everyday watch |
Specifications differ by reference and generation, so always check the exact reference on the listing.
Design: lines or checks
The Nautilus dial carries fine horizontal embossed lines, a nod to the planks of a ship's deck, and the case and bracelet alternate brushed and polished surfaces. Paired with its integrated bracelet, it looks as at home with a suit as with a T-shirt.
The Aquanaut dial has a raised checkerboard pattern, echoed in the pattern of its strap. The look is more playful and more casual, and the colors of the strap and dial are often matched.
Bracelet or strap
Most Nautilus models come on an integrated metal bracelet, which is part of the design. Most Aquanaut models come on the composite tropical strap, which is supple, comfortable in heat and water, and very light. The strap does show wear over time, so check its condition in the photos.
The famous references
- Nautilus 5711/1A: the steel time-and-date Nautilus produced from 2006 until 2021, the most famous Patek of recent years. Its discontinuation made it even more sought after.
- Nautilus 5711/1R: the same design in rose gold.
- Nautilus 5811/1G: the white-gold successor to the time-and-date Nautilus, introduced in 2022.
- Nautilus complications: chronographs, annual calendars and travel-time models in steel, gold and two-tone.
- Aquanaut 5167A: the steel 40 mm Aquanaut, the core of the collection.
- Aquanaut 5168G: the larger 42 mm model in white gold.
- Aquanaut Luce: the ladies' collection, often with gem-set bezels.
How they wear
Both cases are slim for sports watches. The Nautilus on its bracelet feels substantial and refined; the Aquanaut on its strap is noticeably lighter and disappears on the wrist. If you will wear the watch every day in warm weather or by the water, the Aquanaut's strap is a real advantage; if you want one watch for every occasion, the Nautilus bracelet is hard to beat.
Which one should you buy?
Buy the Nautilus if:
- you want the original Patek sports watch and its integrated bracelet;
- you will wear it with business clothes as well as casually;
- you value the history of the Genta design.
Buy the Aquanaut if:
- you want a lighter, more casual Patek for every day;
- you like the checkerboard dial and a strap rather than a bracelet;
- you prefer a more contemporary look.
Buying either one safely
At this level, check the full reference, the year, the condition grade, whether the box and papers (Patek's Certificate of Origin) are included, and, for a Nautilus, the bracelet length and extra links. Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships. If you want more photos or a video of a specific watch, message us on WhatsApp. Our Patek Philippe buying guide covers the rest of the brand.
Shop the Patek Philippe Nautilus, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut, or all Patek Philippe watches.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Aquanaut a cheaper Nautilus?
Not really: it is a different design with its own character. Steel Aquanauts are often priced below steel Nautilus models, but prices depend on reference, metal and condition.
Who designed the Patek Philippe Nautilus?
Gérald Genta, who also designed the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.
Why was the 5711 discontinued?
Patek Philippe ended production of the steel 5711/1A in 2021. The brand did not publish a detailed reason; the watch remains one of the most sought-after Pateks.
Can I swim with a Nautilus or Aquanaut?
Most models are water resistant to 120 m, which suits swimming. Check the rating on the specific reference, and avoid pressing chronograph pushers underwater.
Can I put a bracelet on an Aquanaut?
Some Aquanaut references were made on a bracelet. Changing a strap model to a bracelet depends on the reference; ask us before you buy.
