112nd Auction
2025/5/10
Lot 152
Patek PhilippeNautilus Jumbo Beyer
An ultra-rare, legendary, unpolished and unworn, double-signed vintage Nautilus in gold with Beyer signature and matching "Nautilus" cufflinks (ref. 9037)
Sold
To call a Patek Philippe Nautilus one’s own is truly special – however, a solid 18 K yellow gold reference 3700/1 that comes with the signature of renowned jeweller Beyer (Zurich) on the dial is something else. This remarkable timepiece is accompanied by a pair of matching Nautilus cufflinks (ref. 9037) – making it a magnificent amalgamation of timeless elegance, exclusivity and supreme haute horlogerie.
The Nautilus was created in 1976 by Gérald Genta and has become one of the world's most sought-after luxury timepieces. Reference 3700/001 impresses with its slim and perfectly proportioned 42 mm case, the iconic porthole design and the distinctive dial with the grooved pattern reminiscent of the wooden planks of a ship.
While most examples of this reference were created in stainless steel, the 18 K gold version is a true rarity. The gold case, which consists of two main parts and guarantees the watch’s remarkable robustness lends the watch a special warmth and sophistication, which lets it stand out among its steel peers. The integrated gold bracelet ensures a seamless connection as well as exceptional wearing comfort. The grooved dial gives the watch a fascinating depth and reflects the light beautifully.
The applied luminous indexes and the slim bar hands make for perfect readability, with the date at 3 o’clock perfecting the overall picture. The watch is powered by the legendary calibre 28-255 C, which is one of the flattest and most elegant automatic calibres of its time and highly appreciated for its accuracy and longevity.
This solid gold timepiece is special due to its remarkable exclusivity – in particular the very rare dealer’s signature of the renowned house "Beyer", which is one of the oldest watch sellers in Switzerland makes the watch a collector’s piece of historical importance. The watch originates from the property of the original owner and comes with the original sales receipt issued by “Chronometrie Beyer” at Bahnhofstraße in Zurich, dated March 12 1979. At the time the watch was sold for 12.500 Swiss Francs. After the purchase the watch rested for years in a safe, so that the gold case has darkened and acquired a beautiful honey-coloured hue. The matching original Patek Philippe Nautilus cufflinks (ref. 9037) in darkened 18 K gold with sales receipt dated December 19, 1979 are part of this set. The cufflinks mirror the iconic Nautilus design and complete the look to perfection. This set is more than a watch with accessories, it is a highlight, a magnificent blend of style, tradition and supreme craftsmanship. New to the market, this is only the eleventh 3700/1 model signed by Beyer ever to appear on the market – a one-of-a-kind opportunity for discerning collectors looking for a true rarity.