Year: 1981
Reference No: 3700/3
Movement No: 1’308’060
Case No: 555’024
Model Name: Nautilus
Material: 18K yellow gold and diamonds
Calibre: Automatic, cal. 28-255 C, 36 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe Gay Frères bracelet, max length 185mm
Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp
Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe travel case and Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1981 and its subsequent sale on 12th February 1982.

In 1976, the Nautilus stunned the watch world as Patek Philippe's first luxury sports watch, masterfully designed by the legendary Gérald Genta. Taking inspiration from ocean liner portholes, Genta fittingly named it after the submarine in Jules Verne's classic tale. With an integrated bracelet and ultra-thin automatic movement, its silhouette wears comfortably on the wrist. Initially conceived as an understated steel leisure watch, the Nautilus was not intended for precious metals or diamonds. However, the early 1980s brought scarce gold editions with diamond bezels, pushing boundaries with lavish embellishments. Among the rarest and most coveted is ref. 3700/3, as seen here. According to our research, only 8 examples are known in this precious metal and gemstone combination, making this a grail for collectors. With its well-preserved sturdy case, sharp bevels, and integrated Gay Frères bracelet, the present ref. 3700/3 in yellow gold exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury sports elegance. It provides a portal into the origins of Patek Philippe's now-legendary Nautilus line for scholars and collectors of exceptional vintage watches alike.