Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700/1

Condition: Good
Year of Production: 1978
Case Size: 42mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial Color: Black
Bracelet/Strap: Steel
Movement Type: Automatic
Box: No
Papers: Yes
Location: United States
Description

Patek Philippe Nautilus Jumbo

We are delighted to present this very beautiful and completely original example of the Patek Nautilus Ref 3700/1A. Condition is the uncommon feature of this watch: the case appears to be unpolished after nearly 50 years; and the dial is without any blemishes or oxidation. It's not easy to find the early editions of the Ref 3700 without some patina on the dial, but this dial is nearly perfect. The matte black dial is the type 2 model featuring the accent over the second E attached, and a slightly fatter H in the signature than type 1. This dial type was made only for two years and corresponds to the serial number and year of production of this particular piece. The case shows superficial hairlines consistent with age and a couple of tiny nicks to the edge of the case (which are hard to see while wearing the watch) but the case appears completely original. One test I do when I handle a vintage Nautlius is run my finger across the bezel and crystal. The surfaces of an unpolished watch should be almost completely flush as this one is. Once the Nautlus case is polished once, your finger will catch the edge of the crystal because metal is taken off the bezel. The full length bracelet is also in excellent condition. It is not stretched and the edges of the bracelet show the polished bevel that is characteristic of the Ref 3700. People who have dealt with me know that I am careful to never say a watch is unpolished, but this Nautilus appears to be so. This watch is fresh to the market and never been at auction. It comes from the family of the original owner in Austria. Accessories: Patek Philippe archival document and two original links for the bracelet.