Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167: A 'Mushroom Shot' with RubberB Straps

waitlisted · 2020-10-15T10:57:19Z

Explore waitlisted's Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167 on a red RubberB strap, featuring a 'mushroom shot' and insights into watch photography techniques.

waitlisted

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

25 replies3220 views1 photos

In this insightful post, waitlisted shares his journey into watch photography, specifically focusing on the 'mushroom shot' technique. He showcases his Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167, highlighting the recently released RubberB straps. His detailed observations on the strap's aesthetics and feel provide valuable context for collectors considering aftermarket options.

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As I've gotten deeper into the watch photography rabbit hole over the past year or so (slowly at first, and then significantly deeper once the pandemic hit and I was mostly homebound), I began trying to imitate typical commercial advertising shots for watches. One such shot that has a curious nickname is the "mushroom shot," and if you look at the photo below you can probably guess where the name comes from.

Anyway, here's a mushroom shot of my 5167 on a red RubberB strap - RubberB finally released its long-awaited Aquanaut rubber straps last month, and I picked up three in different colors (red, orange, blue). The red is the only one that I've sized and worn so far, but the other colors look nice as well. The pattern on the RubberB isn't as compelling as the OEM strap, as it doesn't flow as well with the dial, but it's still quite nice and the pattern isn't as chunky as it looks in photos. The physical feel of the strap is more or less indistinguishable from my OEM Aquanaut straps, which is probably no surprise, considering the rumor is that RubberB is also the manufacturer of the OEM straps for Patek. Enjoy!

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

The RubberB straps offer excellent fit and quality, comparable to OEM options, as demonstrated by their use on various watches beyond Patek Philippe.
Achieving high-quality watch photography, especially close-up 'mushroom shots,' often involves specialized equipment like extension tubes, even if the setup isn't always ideal or cost-effective compared to dedicated mirrorless cameras.
The quality of the photography is so high that it can be mistaken for professional commercial production, underscoring the author's skill and the effectiveness of his chosen techniques.
For close-up watch photography, a 28mm lens, such as on a Leica Q2, is not ideal, indicating the importance of appropriate focal length for detailed shots.

The Discussion

GLau

Oct 15, 2020

Wow 🤩, the red strap really gives your 5167 a...

new look 👀 ! 👍

waitlisted

Oct 15, 2020

Agreed! Looking forward to trying the blue and orange straps too when the mood strikes. [nt]

mdg

Oct 15, 2020

That is a lovely shade of red...

...I like that it's more on the subdued side...