Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1984 Reference No: 3700/11 Movement No: 1’309’784 Case No: 2’818’765 Model Name: Nautilus “Jumbo” Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 28-255 C, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe bracelet, max length 190mm Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp Dimensions: 42mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed Accessories: Delivered with two Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the date of manufacture of the present timepiece in 1984 and its subsequent date of sale on 31st October 1986.
Catalogue Essay
Since its introduction in 1976, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is one of the key players who transformed the concept of a luxury sports watch in steel, revolutionizing the watch industry. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta during a quick sketch, it evolved into a timeless horological masterpiece, now famously known as the "Jumbo" Nautilus ref. 3700. At the heart of this 42mm watch lies the caliber 28-255C, which draws its design from the Jaeger-LeCoultre caliber 920 introduced in 1967. The caliber with its lean profile at just 3.15mm, is regarded as one of the most legendary movements ever produced.
The production of the ref. 3700 was divided into two main series, with early examples (1976-1982) stamped as ref. 3700/1, while later examples (1982-1990) are marked as 3700/11. Early models featured a slightly wider bracelet measuring 16mm, whereas later iterations were tapered down to a sleek 14mm.
Extremely well-preserved, the present Jumbo featuring a full gold livery belongs to the later production series of the ref. 3700/11. Previously unknown, this stunning example showcases a case with desirable bevels and sharp hallmarks at the caseback, while the gold bracelet remains rigid and tight. Accompanied by a striking blue-black dial that is as well-preserved as the case, this watch is further authenticated by the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives, confirming its date of manufacture in 1984. In excellent condition, this is a rare opportunity for any vintage Nautilus enthusiast to acquire a remarkable yellow gold example for their collection.
Since 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.