176
Patek Philippe
Ref. 3700/11
Nautilus "Jumbo"
An early and iconic stainless steel automatic wristwatch with date and bracelet
Full-Cataloguing
- Date, automatic
- Uncommon /11 variant with narrow bracelet
- Offered in extremely appealing condition, with sharp case and practically flawless dial
Launched in 1976, the Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3700 stands as one of the most influential wristwatch designs of the 20th century. Conceived by the legendary Gérald Genta, the Nautilus introduced an entirely new concept to haute horlogerie—defined by its stainless steel construction, integrated bracelet, unmistakable porthole-inspired case, and high price point. At a time when precious metals dominated the upper echelon of watchmaking, the reference 3700 boldly challenged convention, laying the foundation for what would become the modern luxury sports watch. In this context, 2026 marks a particularly significant milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Nautilus—an enduring icon whose design language remains as relevant and coveted today as it was at its inception.
Production of the reference 3700 was divided into two principal series. Early examples, produced between 1976 and 1982, were designated reference 3700/1, while later pieces manufactured from 1982 were designated 3700/11. The former features a broader 16mm bracelet, whereas the latter introduced a more tapered 14mm profile, lending a slightly more refined and streamlined presence on the wrist.
Interestingly, the /11 variant appears to be much more uncommon than the earlier /1 counterpart. For example, when looking at steel examples, there are more than 200 /1 examples known from the auction market, but only about 40 /11 specimens. Intriguingly, such disparity in availability is not yet fully reflected in the market evaluation of the watches, thus affording the shrewd collector a remarkable window of opportunity.
Patek Philippe
Swiss | 1839Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.