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Lot Essay
Introduced in 1976, the Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3700 was inspired by portholes found on maritime vehicles. It was the first steel timepiece from Patek Philippe to be marketed as a premier, luxury watch. The original design, as seen in the present lot utilizes a monobloc case, replicating the way portholes are opened on vessels. It is opened through hidden screws found in the 'ears' of the watch. Unscrewing them unlocks the bezel from the case, a tasteful Gerald Genta design incorporating 'form following function'.
From 1976 to 1980, Patek Philippe Nautilus cases were made by Favre-Perret SA, Le Cret du Locle, a top manufacturer that succeeded in the strenuous task of constructing and polishing the highly ornate Nautilus cases and bracelets. Oceanic elements can be seen in the design language of the timepiece such as the utilization of an ocean blue dial with horizontal grooves, meant to evoke the teak decks found on yachts. The timepiece also has an integrated steel bracelet that seamlessly melds with the case, allowing for an incredibly slim and comfortable fit on the wrist.
Fresh to market and from the original owner, the present 3700/1A is a very special and rare timepiece as it is a MK 1 wristwatch and still covets its original dial. The dial is distinguished with hashes for minute markers rather than the later and commonly found dots. Additionally, the accent in Genève is very faintly noticeable on these MK 1 dials. They are very rare and sought after due to the fact that Patek Philippe would often discard and replace them during a service as they were easily damaged. Paired with its original inner & outer box, copy of the original receipt from 1978, and freshly serviced by Patek Philippe, the present lot is ready to wear and a wonderful opportunity to own an original, historical timepiece from the legendary family and brand.
Special thanks to Italian watch enthusiast and historian 'mstanga' for his assistance and invaluable research text, A Study of the Patek Philippe Ref. 3700 'Nautilus'.
From 1976 to 1980, Patek Philippe Nautilus cases were made by Favre-Perret SA, Le Cret du Locle, a top manufacturer that succeeded in the strenuous task of constructing and polishing the highly ornate Nautilus cases and bracelets. Oceanic elements can be seen in the design language of the timepiece such as the utilization of an ocean blue dial with horizontal grooves, meant to evoke the teak decks found on yachts. The timepiece also has an integrated steel bracelet that seamlessly melds with the case, allowing for an incredibly slim and comfortable fit on the wrist.
Fresh to market and from the original owner, the present 3700/1A is a very special and rare timepiece as it is a MK 1 wristwatch and still covets its original dial. The dial is distinguished with hashes for minute markers rather than the later and commonly found dots. Additionally, the accent in Genève is very faintly noticeable on these MK 1 dials. They are very rare and sought after due to the fact that Patek Philippe would often discard and replace them during a service as they were easily damaged. Paired with its original inner & outer box, copy of the original receipt from 1978, and freshly serviced by Patek Philippe, the present lot is ready to wear and a wonderful opportunity to own an original, historical timepiece from the legendary family and brand.
Special thanks to Italian watch enthusiast and historian 'mstanga' for his assistance and invaluable research text, A Study of the Patek Philippe Ref. 3700 'Nautilus'.