Nautilus Champagne Dial
The Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 4700 is a notable timepiece in the prestigious Nautilus collection, first introduced in 1976 and designed by Gérald Genta. As Patek Philippe's foray into the luxury sports watch market, the Nautilus line is characterized by its unique porthole-inspired case design and integrated bracelet. The reference 4700 exemplifies the brand's ability to innovate and adapt to changing market trends while maintaining its commitment to quality and elegance. It remains an iconic model within the Nautilus collection, cherished for its unique place in the history of luxury sports watches.
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SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Nautilus
Reference Number: 4700/1J
Movement: Quartz
Condition: Good
Gender: Ladies
Time Period: Late 1970s-Early 1980s
Box: No
Papers: No
THE CALIBER
Caliber: E 19 C
Jewels: 7
THE CASE
Case Material: 18K yellow gold
Case Diameter: 27.2 x 24.5 mm
Thickness: 5 mm
Waterproof: 100 ft./30 m.
Water Resistance: 3 ATM
Material Bezel: Fixed 18K yellow gold
Glass: Sapphire crystal
Dial: C hampagne dial
Dial Numerals: No numerals, applied gold stick-shaped hour indices
THE BRACELET / STRAP
Bracelet Material: 18K yellow gold
Clasp: Folding clasp
Clasp material: 18K yellow gold
THE FUNCTIONS
Hours, minutes, date aperture at 3 o’clock
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FURTHER READING
THE INTRODUCTION & DESIGN The Nautilus reference 4700 was introduced in the late 1970s, a few years after the launch of the original Nautilus reference 3700. The 4700 was designed as a smaller, more versatile version of the iconic model, catering particularly to a unisex audience. Its case measured 27.2 mm, making it significantly smaller than the 42 mm reference 3700. This smaller size was ideal for those who preferred a more discreet and elegant watch.
The design of the Nautilus 4700 retained the essential elements that made the Nautilus famous: the rounded octagonal bezel, the horizontal embossed dial, and the integrated bracelet. The 4700 was available in various metals, including stainless steel, yellow gold, and a combination of both, providing a range of options for different tastes.
THE MOVEMENT & FEATURES The Nautilus reference 4700 was powered by the quartz Caliber E 19C movement, reflecting the era's trend toward quartz technology. While traditionalists might have favored mechanical movements, the quartz movement in the 4700 offered precision and low maintenance, appealing to a broader audience.
The dial of the 4700 featured a smooth gilt dial, enhancing its vintage visual appeal. It typically came in classic colors such as blue, black, gilt, or white, which complemented the watch's sporty yet elegant aesthetic. The watch also featured a date display at the 3 o'clock position, adding to its practicality. Moreover, from 1971 until 1995, all watches made in Switzerland with gold applied markers or gold dial plates were required to have the 'APRIOR' logo "O.SWISS.O at 6 o'clock (often called 'sigma,' after the Greek letter) marked on the dial. "
APRIOR" stands for Association pour la Promotion Industrielle de l'Or.
THE IMPACT & LEGACY The introduction of the Nautilus 4700 played a crucial role in broadening the appeal of the Nautilus collection. Its smaller size and unisex design made it accessible to a wider audience, including women and those who preferred a less imposing timepiece. The 4700 helped solidify the Nautilus's reputation as a versatile luxury sports watch that could be worn on various occasions.
Over the years, the reference 4700 has become a sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts. Its historical significance as part of the early Nautilus lineage, combined with its distinctive design and reliable quartz movement, make it a prized possession.
THE CONDITION & SET
Considering its vintage, this timepiece is in good condition overall. While there are some minor discoloration spots on the dial, the case and bracelet have retained their elegant contours. It comes with a presentation box and is backed by the Twain Time 12-month mechanical warranty.
