Watch Paparazzi

Television presenter James Corden spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Television presenter James Corden was photographed leaving Funke restaurant in Beverly Hills wearing a Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5168G-001 in 18k white gold, paired with a blue-gradient dial on the model's signature tropical rubber strap. The sighting underscores the enduring collector appeal of Patek Philippe's sport-luxury Aquanaut line, particularly in precious-metal executions that command significant premiums over stainless steel variants.

The 5168G-001 debuted in 2017 as part of the Aquanaut's 20th-anniversary celebration. The reference houses Patek Philippe's in-house Calibre 324 S C, a self-winding movement with a 45-hour power reserve and Gyromax balance-wheel regulation. The case measures 42.2mm in diameter and 9.6mm in thickness, representing a significant step-up in wrist presence compared to earlier Aquanaut references such as the 5065 or 5167. The 18k white gold construction elevates the design language established by the ref. 5063—the model's original 1997 debut in precious metals—while the enlarged proportions appeal to contemporary tastes for oversized luxury sports watches. Water resistance extends to 300 metres, adequate for recreational diving and compatible with the integrated rubber strap.

What distinguishes the 5168G-001 among Aquanaut collectors is its bridging of two design philosophies: the modernist proportions of stainless steel sports models with the rarefied prestige of solid gold construction. The blue-gradient dial, a signature Aquanaut aesthetic, provides visual interest without sacrificing legibility. The tropical rubber strap—treated to develop a natural patina over time—remains a hallmark of the line's casual-luxury positioning, a calculated departure from traditional precious-metal bracelet orthodoxy.

Corden's pairing reflects the 5168G-001's positioning as a refined alternative-sports watch for collectors seeking distinction beyond mainstream offerings. The reference rarely appears on secondary markets, and current grey-market pricing typically ranges between $65,000 and $75,000, driven by limited production and enduring demand among luxury-watch enthusiasts. Retail pricing at authorised dealers hovers near $45,000, though waitlists remain substantial for this specific white gold variant.