MANUFACTURED: 1982
MOVEMENT NO: 1'310'539
CASE NO: 541'033
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIAMETER: 42 mm. wide
BRACELET MATERIAL: Stainless steel
BRACELET SIZE: Approx. 190mm. overall length
DIAL: Black, "Type 3"
MOVEMENT: Automatic
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
WITH: Extract from the Archives confirming the manufacture of the present watch in 1982 and its subsequent sale on 15 June 1983
REMARK: Fresh to market and from the original owner

Conditions of Sale
FAQs
This lot is offered by Christie's Inc

Brought to you by

Lot Essay

Fresh to market and from the original owner, the present Nautilus reference 3700 features an early and collectible "Type 3" dial distinguished by its "sigma swiss sigma" text, accented "E," and non-symmetrical "K."

The Nautilus reference 3700
The case design patent of the first Nautilus, reference 3700/1, was registered on the 23rd of April, 1976. It is comprised of two-parts: the main body and the fitted bezel. At each side is an “ear” that couples with a corresponding flange in which the two parts are secured by lateral screws. A rubber seal sits between the bezel and case body which is thus compressed when subject to water pressure, forming a perfect watertight seal. From 1976 until 1980, the cases were made for Patek Philippe by Favre-Perret SA, Le Crêt du Locle.

In 1980, Patek Philippe launched the manufacture of cases and bracelets in their Ateliers Réunis workshops and the Nautilus changed its reference number to the new reference 3700/11, such as the present example.

Another attraction of the Nautilus reference 3700/11 for the watch aficionado is movement, generally agreed to be one of the greatest watch calibers – the 28-255. Based on the original Jaeger-LeCoultre caliber 920 of 1967, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful and refined automatic movements ever produced. It is also very thin at only 3.15 mm., therefore highly appropriate for the slim and elegant Nautilus. The caliber is 12.5 lignes, with 36-jewels and beats at 19,800 vibrations. It is supplied with the shock-protected free-sprung Gyromax balance with eight rotatable weights, allowing for rate adjustment without the need for a conventional regulator index. The winding-rotor is formed from a beryllium ring with a 21k gold rim. This clever design with four additional ruby rollers to support the rotor around its periphery allows the thinness of the movement to remain uncompromised.

More from

Watches Online: The New York Edit, Featuring Stories in Time: A Collection of Exceptional Watches

View All

Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

I confirm that I have read this Important Notice regarding Condition Reports and agree to its terms.

View Condition Report

The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is running at the time of cataloging, consistent with the age of the watch. The watch was removed from a Patek Philippe service seal before cataloging, but the date of service is unknown. The movement has not been tested for accuracy. A service is recommended given the age of the watch.
Dial: The dial has light scratches at the center near the hand stack, and the upper right quarter has aged lighter in color. The hands and hour markers have scratches, and the hands are likely service.
Case: The case has scratches and nicks throughout and shows signs of a polishing. The caseback has some pitting and residue from the service sticker. The crown is likely service.
Bracelet: The bracelet has scratches and wear throughout with some stretching. The watch has a service clasp.
Overall Condition: Good

1. All lots are sold "AS IS", and this condition report is provided purely as a goodwill service and may not specify all mechanical replacements or defects. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in good condition and without defects, repairs, or restoration. You are accordingly encouraged to view the lots personally or through your own professional advisor.

2. For further information on these issues, please refer to the terms and conditions.

We thank you for your interest in the forthcoming sale. We remind you again that all property is sold “as is” and should be viewed personally by you or by your professional advisor before the sale to assess its condition.

Please note that the bracelet size is measured with the watch head attached.

Print Report