The Aquanaut 5164A is, for me, the perfect blend of casual and complicated. It has all the youthful, modern spirit of the Aquanaut line, but with a dual-time function that gives it real-world practicality. Introduced in 2011, the model became the ultimate evolution of the sporty Aquanaut. Now discontinued, it’s more desirable than ever.
Overview
Introduced in 2011, the Travel Time brought real-world utility to the Aquanaut line.
The embossed dial pattern, paired with the tropical rubber strap, defines the Aquanaut’s modern identity.
What stands out
What makes the 5164A so compelling is the way it blends casual elegance with real-world utility. The dual-time function is brilliantly intuitive: two pushers at 9 o’clock let you jump the local hour hand forward or backward, while the home hand stays fixed. Day/night indicators for both time zones make it immediately clear where you stand. For a frequent traveler, it’s a dream — but even at home it adds a quiet layer of usefulness that you notice every day.
On the wrist
At 40.8 mm, the 5164A wears beautifully. On paper, it might sound larger than its sibling, the 5167A, but the rounded case makes it feel slightly smaller than the dimensions suggest. The extra presence is there, but it never feels bulky. On a tropical rubber strap, it’s light and comfortable, even in warm weather.
The design itself is understated but far from plain. It doesn’t rely on bold colors or gradients; instead, it delivers a clean, modern look with subtle sophistication. In that sense, it feels almost like a stealth GMT. For years the Nautilus has taken the spotlight as Patek’s definitive sports watch, but the Aquanaut has steadily claimed its own ground. Today, the 5164A represents one of the most balanced and versatile expressions of Patek’s sport design language.
Two pushers on the left case side allow for quick local time adjustment – simple, intuitive, effective.
Side by side with the Nautilus 5711, the Aquanaut reveals its more contemporary spirit – rounded edges, embossed dial, and a rubber strap that set it apart from the classic lines of Patek’s most iconic design.
Inside the case
Powering the watch is the caliber 324 S C FUS. It’s slim, efficient, and finished to Patek’s exacting standards: Geneva stripes, perlage, anglage. The movement keeps the watch just under 11 mm thick, a feat considering the added complication. It proves that functionality doesn’t have to compromise elegance.
Collector’s note
For years, the 5164A lived in the shadow of the simpler 5167. But as collectors came to appreciate its practicality and balance, it quickly rose to prominence. Now discontinued, after a surprisingly long production run from 2011 to 2024, it has only become more attractive on the secondary market. It’s a classic Patek move to keep models relevant and even more exclusive among its collectors. Today, it’s recognized as one of the most complete modern Aquanauts.
Powered by caliber 324 S C FUS, slim enough to keep the watch under 11 mm thick.
The double-folding clasp of the 5164A – secure, refined, and seamlessly integrated with the tropical strap.
Verdict
I owned the Aquanaut 5164A for a long time, and it became a trusted companion in both daily life and on travels. The size was perfect for my 17 cm wrist, and the Travel Time function worked seamlessly. Even so, it wasn’t without its quirks. The rubber strap flared outward slightly at 12 o’clock, and in an attempt to fix it I trimmed it shorter for a tighter fit — only to regret it and replace it with a new strap. My advice: always leave just enough room to slide a finger between strap and wrist for comfort.
I didn’t let go of the watch because I stopped enjoying it — far from it. I sold it only when I turned 40 and was offered a dream piece I had waited years for. The 5164A had to make room, but I still look back on it as one of the most practical and enjoyable watches I’ve owned 
At 40.8 mm, the 5164A wears comfortably while offering real presence on the wrist.
Discontinued in 2024, the Travel Time has quickly become one of the most sought-after Aquanauts.
The Magnifier
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Reference: 5164A-001
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Case: 40.8 mm stainless steel, 11 mm thick
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Bezel: Rounded octagonal, brushed and polished
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Movement: Caliber 324 S C FUS, automatic, Geneva Seal
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Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, dual time with day/night indicators, date linked to local time
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Power Reserve: 35–45 hours
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Dial: Black embossed with lumed Arabic numerals
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Strap: Tropical composite rubber with steel folding clasp
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Water Resistance: 120 m
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Production: 2011–2024 (discontinued)
Available now
For readers interested in adding this reference to their own collection: a Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5164A is currently available through Stories of Time.