Launched in 1981, the ref. 3800 was Patek Philippe’s iteration of the original Nautilus ref. 3700, in a smaller case. Measuring 37.5mm diameter, the ref. 3800 is perhaps the perfect unisex wristwatch in modern times. The reference was manufactured with a wide array of case materials and dial variations, making it one of the most interesting luxury sports model manufactured by Patek Philippe to collect. Manufactured until 2006, the reference was launched in 4 series during its production spanning 25 years.

While smaller in size, the Nautilus reference 3800 maintained all the design cues of its older brother, with its porthole inspired case, integrated metal bracelet, baton indexes and the immediately recognisable dial with embossed horizontal lines.

Differing from its larger ref. 3700, the ref. 3800 features an additional sweep center seconds. Examples from the first series produced until 1987 were powered by cal. 335 SC (without quickset date), second series examples featured the same caliber, however with an upgraded quickset date function were produced until 1992. Examples from the third series featured yet another upgraded cal. 330-134 and was produced until 1997 and the last series featured the cal. 330-194.

The present Nautilus in yellow gold is a rare timepiece offering the wearer the best of both worlds. Versatile in design and size, it bears a calm air of luxury adding a dash of panache and flamboyance on any wrist it adorns.