Taking inspiration from the greatest depths of the Oceans and its most celebrated writer Jules Verne, Gerald Genta designed, in 1976, a watch that would become the horological icon of the 21st century. Named Nautilus after the submarine described in Verne’s book Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas, the watch shares its curves with the ones of the portholes of transatlantic ocean liners. Its ‘Jumbo’ case with wide flat bezel, integrated link bracelet, and ultra-thin automatic movement had a masculine, sporty aesthetic that was revolutionary compared to the smaller dressy gold mechanical watches of the time.

Before being succeeded by the reference 3700/011 with a tapered bracelet, the original Nautilus reference 3700/001 was in production until 1981 and featured a straight bracelet, like the present example. Early examples of the reference are fitted with broader 16mm bracelets, while later examples are updated with narrower bracelets measuring 14mm at the end.

Framed in a two-tone yellow gold and stainless steel case, the present watch embodies to perfection the aesthetic cues of the 1980s: statement colours with playfulness. Its gold inner links adds flair, sophistication and suave cool to an already iconic model. Neither was craftmanship and quality left to fate. Its dark bleu dial was handmade with utmost precision by Stern Frères with engraved stripes to achieve a uniform ribbed appeal. Furthermore, the present example is beautifully preserved with a rigid and tight bracelet as well as all its original accessories. This timepiece will surely become a shining and prominent piece in its new owner's collection.