Patek Philippe

In 1981 Patek Philippe launched the mid-size Nautilus, reference 3800/1. The watch had a reduced diameter and provided an attractive alternative to the already popular 'Jumbo' version. The watch also featured the new calibre 335 SC and was available in steel, two-tone and full gold. The cases were manufactured by Favre-Perret and the dials by Stern Créations. The slightly more conservative case size ensures this timepiece perfectly fits a wrist which would not necessarily accommodate the larger, Jumbo size.

The Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3800 was produced between 1981 and 2006 in several versions.

Its production can be divided into 4 successive series.

The first series for the reference 3800 was made until 1987, utilizing the caliber 335SC. The second series used the same caliber 335SC with the notable modern addition of a date quickset, allowing the date to be set through the crown. The third series saw light in 1997, introducing the use of cal. 330 134 before the introduction of the final and fourth series, using the caliber 330 194. In 2006, the reference 3800 was discontinued and ultimately replaced with the reference 5800.

The present example, sold in 1991, belongs to the second series and is fitted with the correct 335SC with the quick set date function.

This watch, however, is not any Reference 3800. It is a 3800/4. The "/4" refers to three rows of diamonds decorating the bezel. Produced between 1988 to 1996, only two examples of the 3800/4 have previously appeared on the international market, making this lot a most exciting opportunity.