Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800/2J
SoldPatek Philippe Nautilus 3800/2J
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This uncommon 3800 combines our favorite Nautilus size with one of the classiest gem-settings we’ve ever seen.
Patek Philippe introduced the ref. 3800 as the midsize brother of the original ref. 3700 Nautilus, clocking in at a diameter of 37.5 mm. The 3800 wasn’t just a shrunken Nautilus, but introduced some important improvements vis-à-vis its big brother. For instance, the 3800 was the first Nautilus to feature an in-house automatic movement: the caliber 335 SC. Moreover, the 3800 also was the first Nautilus reference to feature a center seconds (as indicated by the “SC”, which stands for seconde centrale).
The ref. 3800/2J combines the iconic Gerald Genta-designed case and bracelet, executed in 18k yellow gold, with an elegant factory-set diamond lined bezel. The classic champagne color embossed dial gives the watch a pleasing monochromatic look that is only interrupted by the uncommon black date disc with contrasting white text—a feature found only on early executions of the ref. 3800. Meanwhile, two printed Greek sigmas (“σ swiss σ”) at the six o’clock position indicate that the indices and hands are made of 18k yellow gold.
This beautiful ref. 3800/2J dates back to 1983 and is accompanied by an extract from the Patek Philippe archives.
Introduction
Patek Philippe NautilusPatek Philippe’s ultra exclusive timepieces have usually been reserved for the lucky few. Its mechanical masterpieces were traditionally made from precious metals and worn by an elegant lady or gentleman. After the roaring success of Audemars Piguet’s Gerald Genta-designed Royal Oak, Patek decided that it also needed its own luxury steel sports watch.As the story goes, Gerald Genta drew the initial design of the Nautilus while observing a group of Patek executives having dinner during the Baselworld watch fair. When the Nautilus was introduced in 1976 it was advertised as a watch that worked equally well with a wet suit as with a dinner suit. Not quite incidentally, it was also the most expensive steel sports watch available in the market.Ever since the very first Nautilus, the Patek and Nautilus names have become inseparable. Over the years, many variations, with different materials, dial colors and layouts, and complications, have been added to the Nautilus lineup. However, Genta’s original design elements have remained in all these executions: a rounded octagonal bezel inspired by the portholes of a ship with ‘ears’ on the sides of the case that look like the hinges of a porthole.
Specifications
- SKU 7198
- Case Dimensions
- Case Material
- Dial
- Glass
- Caliber
- Movement
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Reference
3800/2
- Year