Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 vs Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516
| Specification | Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 | Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Patek Philippe | Vacheron Constantin |
| Collection | Aquanaut | Patrimony |
| Reference | 5164A-001 | 4000U/000R-B516 |
| Category | GMT | Dress |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Caliber | Patek Philippe 324 S C FUS | Caliber 2460 R31R7 |
| Power Reserve | 45h | 40h |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph | 28,800 vph |
| Case Diameter | 40.8mm | 42.5mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.0mm | 10.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | 18k Rose Gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Water Resistance | 120m / 394ft | 30m / 98ft |
| Weight | 95g | 95g |
| MSRP | $41,510 | $41,500 |
| Market Price | $60,000 | $36,000 |
In-Depth Comparison
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.
Heritage And Brand Prestige
Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Aquanaut reference was introduced in 2011, while this Patrimony reference debuted in 2015. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 beats the Patek Philippe 324 S C FUS caliber offering a 45-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 29 jewels. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is powered by the Caliber 2460 R31R7 with a 40-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 27 jewels. The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 wins on power reserve with a 5-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.
Dimensions And Wearability
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 features a 40.8mm case at 11.0mm thick with a 45.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 comes in at 42.5mm and 10.5mm thick with 50.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18k Rose Gold. The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 95g, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, rounded octagonal bezel, while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, polished bezel. On the wrist, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 comes on a Composite rubber strap (Tropical) with Fold-over clasp, while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is fitted with Dark brown alligator leather strap featuring 18k rose gold folding clasp.
Water Resistance And Capability
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 is rated to 120m / 394ft and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 to 30m / 98ft. For serious diving or water activities, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 offers a meaningful advantage.
Pricing And Value
At retail, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 lists for $41,510 compared to $41,500 for the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516. On the secondary market, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 trades around $60,000 while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 commands approximately $36,000. The Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 trades at a 45% premium over retail, indicating strong demand and investment potential.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. As an investment piece, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time 5164A-001 has proven market demand. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.