PATEK PHILIPPE | NAUTILUS "JUMBO", REFERENCE 3700 A STAINLESS STEEL BRACELET WATCH WITH DATE AND TROPICAL DIAL, MADE IN 1977 " | 百達翡麗 | Nautilus “Jumbo” 型號3700 精鋼鏈帶腕錶，備日期顯示及棕色錶盤，機芯編號1305835，錶殼編號536761，約1977年製"

The Patek Philippe Nautilus was launched in 1976 during the quartz crisis, which was hitting the Swiss watch industry hard at the time. Created by Gerald Genta, the iconic porthole-inspired design endured the crisis and is still extremely popular today. The first Nautilus reference was the 3700, such as the present lot, and produced until 1998 though steel versions were only made until 1986/1987. Boasting a large case for the time period, the nickname 'Jumbo' was adopted by collectors and stuck ever since. 

When launched, Patek Philippe advertised the model as possibly the most expensive steel watch on the market which is still accurate today since succeeding references are definitely among the most expensive steel watches produced in series, often attaining even higher prices on the secondary market.

The present Nautilus 'Jumbo' Ref. 3700 is an astonishing piece, preserved in very attractive condition with sharpness to the case, and boasting a beautiful tropical dial. With age, the black-blue ribbed dial has developed an incredibly eye catching patina radiating from the centre providing the watch with unique character. Additionally to its exceptional visible appeal, the considerate owner has retained its original Certificate of Origin and ultra rare cork presentation case.