Patek Philippe

• cal. 28-255C automatic nickel lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 36 jewels • ribbed blue dial, applied luminescent baton indexes and hands, aperture for date at 3 o'clock • Nautilus case with protective crown  • case, dial and movement signed • with a stainless steel Patek Philippe bracelet and folding clasp signed Nautilus 

The movement is running while cataloguing and some small signs of rust show on the movement. However this watch may require a service in the near future in order to be well preserved. The dial is in good condition and remains in its original condition with luminous indexes. However the extract from the archives mentions a black dial when the watch was produced. Blue dials on Nautilus are later. The case shows some light signs of wear and the original plastic protection remains on the case back. Overall this watch is in good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on August 26th 1977.

Patek Philippe launched the Nautilus in 1976. At the time its new design by Gerald Genta quickly became one of the leading models in the emerging sport watches market.


The first Nautilus ever made was reference 3700/1 in stainless steel and was in production from 1976 to 1986. Since then, it has established itself as a classic elegant sports watch for collectors of vintage timepieces.

This reference is illustrated in Huber, M, & Banberry, A, Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Vol II, Second Edition, pp. 230-231.