Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700/1

Patek Philippe Ref. 3700/1 An extremely rare, very attractive and well-preserved stainless steel wristwatch with date, bracelet and Certificate of Origin

Manufacturer : Patek Philippe Year : Circa 1981 Reference No : 3700/1 Movement No : 1’309’653 Case No : 539’337 Model Name : Nautilus “Jumbo Material : Stainless steel Calibre : Automatic, cal. 28-255 C, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap : Stainless steel Patek Philippe bracelet, max length 195mm Clasp/Buckle : Stainless steel Patek Philippe deployant clasp Dimensions : 42mm diameter Signed : Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed Accessories : Accompanied by Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin stamped Orologeria Svizzera Florence dated 19th October 1981 and retailer certificate The production of the Patek Philippe ref. 3700 was segmented into two main series, with early examples (1976-1982) stamped as ref. 3700/1, while later examples produced from 1982 to 1990 are stamped as 3700/11. What elevates this specimen to another level is its mesmerizing hue of the dial. Incredibly charismatic, during the 1980s, these hand-made ridged Nautilus dials manufactured by Stern Fréres features the Dot Sigma designation at 6 o'clock. Most commonly associated by scholarship as the Type 6 (σ . SWISS . σ) and Type 7 dial (. σ SWISS σ. ) variant, these dials over time has the tendency of developing a subtle greenish grey tone throughout. Only a handful of Type 7 dial examples have surfaced in the market, all ranging from movement 1'309'XXX, they carry this distinct sea-green hue that is truly impressive. Additionally, this timepiece matches all the defining characteristics of its iteration, including a brand signature with rare thin serifs. Recent scholarship suggests that this variant of the ref. 3700 served as an inspiration for the equally sought-after and scarce modern Nautilus ref. 5711/1A-014 “olive green” dial. Made circa 1981, the present stainless steel specimen of the ref. 3700/1 exhibits the characteristics of early generation batches, notably featuring a wider bracelet. The inner caseback displays the matching serial and reference numbers, along with the correct three-digit serial number stamped on the underside of the hinged ears. Exceptionally pleasing and highly collectible with its sea-green dial where connoisseurs will definitely appreciate. The lot is further accompanied by the original Certificate of Origin and retailer certificate from October 1981, a rarity as most examples have unfortunately been lost. Phillips would like to thank Mstanga for the research of the present timepiece.