.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
The present Nautilus is a superb example of the extremely rare Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3700/1JA, which was first introduced in 1976 and made in a very small number of units. Research indicates that only about 700 were produced, making it significantly less common than its stainless steel equivalent. The watch is further distinguished by its dial, double-signed by the esteemed retailer E. Gübelin, a feature that greatly increases its appeal to collectors.
The Nautilus Water-Resistant Case Ref. 3700⁄1
The patented case design of the original Nautilus, reference 3700⁄1, was registered on 23 April 1976. From 1976 until 1980, Favre-Perret SA produced cases for Patek Philippe. After that, production moved to the company's own Ateliers Réunis workshops. The central case body and the bezel are the two primary parts of the novel water-resistant construction. A characteristic 'ear' on each side attaches to a matching flange and is fastened with lateral screws. The most effective water resistance under pressure is ensured by a compressed rubber gasket placed between the bezel and case.
Reference 3700⁄1 was produced in several metals, including stainless steel, steel and gold, 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, and platinum. In 1980, when Patek Philippe brought case and bracelet production in-house, the reference evolved into the 3700⁄11. This later model used 'Chrome-Nickel-Molybdenum steel' and had a slightly improved bracelet with a deployant clasp that was thinner, measuring 16 mm instead of 18 mm.
E. Gübelin
Established in 1854 in Lucerne, E. Gübelin remained a family-run business, renowned for its sophisticated style and unwavering standards in watchmaking and jewelry. The presence of Gübelin’s signature on a Patek Philippe dial represents a historic collaboration between two of Switzerland’s most prestigious houses. Collectors are still fascinated with these double-signed pieces as they represent exclusivity, provenance, and a shared legacy of excellence.
The Nautilus Water-Resistant Case Ref. 3700⁄1
The patented case design of the original Nautilus, reference 3700⁄1, was registered on 23 April 1976. From 1976 until 1980, Favre-Perret SA produced cases for Patek Philippe. After that, production moved to the company's own Ateliers Réunis workshops. The central case body and the bezel are the two primary parts of the novel water-resistant construction. A characteristic 'ear' on each side attaches to a matching flange and is fastened with lateral screws. The most effective water resistance under pressure is ensured by a compressed rubber gasket placed between the bezel and case.
Reference 3700⁄1 was produced in several metals, including stainless steel, steel and gold, 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, and platinum. In 1980, when Patek Philippe brought case and bracelet production in-house, the reference evolved into the 3700⁄11. This later model used 'Chrome-Nickel-Molybdenum steel' and had a slightly improved bracelet with a deployant clasp that was thinner, measuring 16 mm instead of 18 mm.
E. Gübelin
Established in 1854 in Lucerne, E. Gübelin remained a family-run business, renowned for its sophisticated style and unwavering standards in watchmaking and jewelry. The presence of Gübelin’s signature on a Patek Philippe dial represents a historic collaboration between two of Switzerland’s most prestigious houses. Collectors are still fascinated with these double-signed pieces as they represent exclusivity, provenance, and a shared legacy of excellence.