Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167 Refurbishment Issues

Poky · 2016-09-11T10:29:56Z

Poky shares his disappointing Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167 refurbishment experience, highlighting over-polished lugs and the brand's resolution. A must-read for collectors considering watch service.

Poky

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

72 replies42014 views4 photos

Poky shares a cautionary tale about the refurbishment of his Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167, highlighting the risks of over-polishing during service. His experience underscores the importance of maintaining original case integrity and the high expectations collectors have for factory service, especially from a brand like Patek Philippe.

I decided to have my 5167 refurbished as I was having the bracelet changed to the tropical strap and the watch was also due for its service. The watch looks great with the strap and the movement also looks very good but the case refurbishment is disappointing.

As you can see one of the lugs is over-polished and has become rounder, the bevel is exaggerated. Similar problem but not as bad on the other side (3rd photo). Whilst I appreciate refurbishing a watch is not an easy task, I did not expect this from PP. The watch had only a few marks and now I wish I had not had it refurbished. I am going to have to take it back but the question is, will Patek put it right? and how much longer will I need to wait- 4 months wait to get it back the first time?

There is also a subtle but noticeable raised ridge of metal on top of the crown protector (left of the photo).

Bevel over-polished and rounded.

Asymmetric lug bevels on the other side of the case.

How it should be.

About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167

Patek Philippe Aquanaut Reference 5167

The Reference 5167 represents the 40mm stainless steel iteration within Patek Philippe's Aquanaut model line. Introduced in 2007 and remaining in current production, this reference features a black dial and establishes the standard sizing for the steel Aquanaut offering.

The 40mm stainless steel case houses the automatic Caliber 324 S C movement, providing 45 hours of power reserve. The watch incorporates a sapphire crystal and smooth bezel configuration. Water resistance extends to 120 meters, while the distinctive composite rubber strap displays an embossed check pattern that complements the case design.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking contemporary Patek Philippe sports watch execution in stainless steel. The 5167 offers entry into the Aquanaut model range while maintaining the manufacturing standards associated with the Geneva manufacture. Its ongoing production status ensures availability through authorized channels for both new collectors and those expanding existing collections.

Specifications

Caliber: 324 S C

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 120m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Over-polishing during refurbishment can significantly reduce the value of a watch by altering its original case geometry, making a new case the appropriate resolution for such damage.
Unless a watch case is severely abused, the risk of refinishing may outweigh the benefits, as even a light touch-up can lead to irreversible material removal and altered aesthetics.
Patek Philippe's commitment to service and restoration should uphold the same skills and craftsmanship as creating a new watch; owners should remind the brand of these stated standards when service quality falls short.
The author received a new case as a goodwill gesture after the initial refurbishment issues, indicating Patek Philippe's eventual commitment to client satisfaction despite initial quality control problems.
The 5167, despite being marketed as durable, may be more of a jewelry piece than a robust daily wearer, with its bezel prone to scratches and a recommended three-year service interval.
The experience highlights the 'worst nightmare' scenario for collectors during service, emphasizing the anxiety associated with entrusting valuable timepieces for restoration.

The Discussion

brauner

Sep 11, 2016

You can see without ... Bad work.

Bill

Sep 11, 2016

Personally I would not risk a second round of polishing as again you remove material. I realize it is a major disappointment and you should draw it to their attention but.... I guess the lesson we learn as that unless your case has be abused it is not worth the risk of a refinish. If it was full of nicks and dings and it came back as yours you would be satisfied. But light wear as you described and your expectations was a light touch up - for me too risky. Please let us know the conclusion. Bill

MichaelC

Sep 11, 2016

Wow. That is utterly disappointing. I feel for you.

Arie - Mr Orange

Sep 11, 2016

Too many watches to service at PP?

mpg13

Sep 11, 2016

That's very disappointing. Best, martin

vitalsigns

Sep 11, 2016

and the resulting over-polishing was done to hide the error. I would send it back to Patek to fix as best they can.

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Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167 Refurbishment Issues

About the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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