Patek Philippe

Introduced in 1981, the Patek Philippe Reference 3800 is mid-sized version of the iconic Reference 3700 Nautilus designed by legendary watch maker Gerald Genta in 1976. At 37.5 mm it is significantly smaller than the 42 mm size of its predecessor the Reference 3700, and was meant to bring the Nautilus design to a wider audience.

The Reference 3800 was notable for the different generations of the calibres 335 SC and 330 SC used to power it throughout its two decade run. The 335 SC was Patek Philippe’s attempt to equip the Nautilus collection with in-house movements instead of the Jaeger LeCoultre ébauches used by their competitors. It is estimated that this first version of the calibre 335 SC was used until 1987 until it was completely replaced by the calibre 330 SC in 1992. 

The 3800 is perhaps most remembered today for its vast variety of configurations. From colorful dials to exquisite gem-set creations with gem-set bracelets, the 3800 truly saw the best of Patek Philippe’s creativity during this period, and it is partly what makes it so attractive for collectors looking for interesting pieces one might not otherwise encounter today.

The present lot is one such example cased entirely in yellow gold featuring diamond-set indices on the dial. Beautifully preserved with clear and crisp engravings and assay marks, the present 3800 is a marvelous example of a coveted classic in the iconic Nautilus collection.