Watch Paparazzi

Television presenter Ellen spotted wearing Patek Philippe

Ellen DeGeneres was recently photographed wearing a Patek Philippe Aquanaut Dual Time in stainless steel, reference 5164A — a watch that consistently punches above its weight class in both technical sophistication and collector desirability.

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5164A was introduced as part of the Aquanaut line, which itself debuted in 1997 as a more accessible, sportier counterpart to the Nautilus. The 5164A measures 40.8mm in steel and runs on Caliber 324 S C FUS — a self-winding movement with a date, sweep seconds, and a dual time zone function that allows the local hour hand to be set independently in one-hour increments without stopping the movement. Power reserve stands at approximately 45 hours. The embossed black composite dial and matching relief rubber strap with deployant clasp give the piece its signature tropical, relaxed character. Water resistance is rated to 120 meters.

From a collector standpoint, the 5164A occupies a particularly interesting position. Stainless steel Patek Philippe sport references have been among the most pressured references at retail for over a decade, and the Aquanaut family — including the 5164A — trades well above list on the secondary market. The dual time complication adds a layer of genuine utility that appeals to both watch enthusiasts and frequent travelers, making it a logical choice for someone with a demanding international schedule.

Ellen DeGeneres, who hosted one of the longest-running daytime talk shows in American television history, has been spotted with notable timepieces on multiple occasions. Her choice of the 5164A reads as characteristically considered — sporty enough for daily television work, but carrying the full weight of Patek Philippe's horological credibility on the wrist.

At retail, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5164A was listed at approximately £27,500 in the UK market. On the grey market, demand for steel Aquanaut references has historically pushed prices significantly above list, and the 5164A is no exception, trading between $45,000 and $55,000 depending on condition and provenance. For a steel sports watch with a genuine complication from one of watchmaking's most prestigious manufactures, that premium reflects real market conviction.