Released in 1981 during the heights of the quartz crisis, the Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 4700 is the smallest of the model ever produced by the firm with a case measuring 26mm diameter. The early 1980s was a crucial moment for the watch industry as manufacturers had to choose between fully integrating into catering towards the fashion and trends of the 20th century, or to stick to their traditional roots in classic Swiss watchmaking. Patek Philippe made an important statement by firmly stating that they are traditional watchmakers from the 19th century though they do embrace the new quartz technology but would not let it override their heritage. By doing so, Patek Philippe retained their production to be driven by mechanical timepieces as well as introducing quartz models at the same time and the ref. 4700 was among one of the models that bore a quartz cal. E19C.

In production for over 23 years until it was discontinued in 2004, the Patek Philippe lady’s Nautilus ref. 4700 was offered with many different variations. The present example in stainless steel with an ashen gray ribbed dial is truly a classic. Offered in excellent overall condition with extremely minimal signs of use and wear plus complete with its full set of accessories, this is truly the perfect everyday timepiece for the discerned lady collector today.