Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700/11J

A spectacular 3700/11J from 82.

In order to survive, Patek Philippe launched the Nautilus. It was a reaction to the massive decline in sales due to the introduction of quartz watches. Audemars Piguet released the Royal Oak in 1972, creating a new breed of timepieces: luxury sports watches. Patek Philippe turned to the same designer, Gerald Genta, to create a similar piece. The Nautilus was Patek Philippe's venture into a new species of watches. Initially, this groundbreaking -porthole inspired- model was launched in steel; yet carried the exorbitant price tag of $3100USD.

However, as it quickly gained popularity, more opulent versions were introduced. The example we have on offer is executed in 18k yellow gold from the "2nd series", meaning it is a 3700/11 rather than its more common 3700/1. The difference lies in the case and bracelet construction, with the former being produced by Atelier Reunis. Patek Philippe switched in the early 80's and created approximately five hundred /11J, they released twice as much /1. The biggest distinction in the way it wears lies in the bracelet. The links on the 2nd series are longer and the bracelet is more tapered; arguably making it slightly more elegant.

The dial is most certainly iconic. Showcasing once again, they are taking it a step further (in terms of finishing) than sport watch counterparts from other brands. The embossed bars on the dark surface -or "ribbed" as the maison describes it- adds grandeur to an otherwise straightforward dial lay-out.. The applied indices are baton shaped, and just like the hands, are filled with tritium as luminescent compound. The absence of an hour markers at the 3 o'clock position allows the date function to be present. Even though the color is always described as "Matte black" on the extract, in reality it is so much more rich; ranging from dark blue to anthracite.

To emphasise once more the Nautilus isn't just a utility watch, Patek Philippe relied on one of the thinnest and finest automatic movements. Cal. 28-255C is based on the renowned 920 from Jaeger-LeCoultre. The movement has just undergone a full service and is ready to be your loyal and punctual servant for the upcoming years.

Furthermore, it comes with an extract of the archive and a rare dealer booklet displaying this exact configuration, dated the same month and year as the watch was sold: October 1982. Unparalleled rarity captured in a design that has stood the test of time. "Jumbo" in size, "Great" in demand and "Mega" in historical significance.