104th Auction

2021/5/22

Lot 135

Patek Philippe
Nautilus Jumbo

A legendary, vintage Geneva wristwatch with date

Sold

estimated
85.000150.000 €
Price realized
137.500 €
specific features
Case
18k gold, screwed on bezel, Patek Philippe 18k gold bracelet, bracelet length 140 mm, total length 175 mm.
Dial
Black, bar-like texture, applied luminous indexes, luminous baton hands.
Movement
Automatic.
Case no.537365
Ref.3700/1
Cal.28-255C
Diam.42 x 44 mm
Circa1978
Ctry.Swiss
Wt.194 g


Reference 3700/1 was produced until 1981 and had a straight bracelet, while its predecessor reference 3700/11, in production until 1990, featured a slightly tapered bracelet.
The sophisticated "porthole" design by Gerald Genta ensures that the Nautilus remains one of the most remarkable and sought-after models of the Patek Philippe range today. The watch was created in 1976 and its rather chunky shape - inspired by the shape of a porthole of a transatlantic liner – certainly stood out from the other, rather more conservative designs of the Patek Philippe brand. The distinctive "Jumbo" case has a wide, flat bezel and an integrated link bracelet. The black ribbing of the dial is repeated on the applied indexes and the baton hands. The Nautilus was not an immediate sales success but its popularity grew rapidly and soon the Nautilus stood for sophistication, vitality and character.
While the steel model comes across as restrained and matter-of-fact, the gold version such as this is the perfect accessory for connoisseurs of fine watches who appreciate top quality materials and luxurious sophistication as well as debonair nonchalance – it is truly a golden opportunity to acquire one of the most legendary and highly sought-after timepieces ever, sold by the original owner and in excellent condition.