Patek Philippe
Nautilus, Reference 3800/003J | A yellow gold and diamond set wristwatch with bracelet and matching cufflinks | Circa 1989
Auction Closed
May 10, 02:36 PM GMT
Estimate
30,000 - 60,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Watch
Dial: ribbed champagne, with applied diamond indexes and luminous hands
Calibre: cal. 335 SC automatic, 29 jewels
Movement number: 1'427'377
Case: 18k yellow gold and diamond-set, bezel secured by 4 screws
Case number: 2'857'244
Closure: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 37 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, setting pin, additional 18k yellow gold link, presentation box with outer packaging and a pair of Wempe signed 18k yellow gold cufflinks
Produced in very limited numbers, the Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 3800/003 featuring a factory diamond‑set champagne‑colored dial represents one of the rarest configurations of the 3800 family. Current scholarship suggests that fewer than 200 examples of this variant were manufactured, with approximately 21 known pieces having resurfaced on the international market to date, underscoring its significant rarity and desirability among collectors.
Notably, this example was acquired from Wempe in Frankfurt, Germany, as documented by its Certificate of Origin, and is accompanied by a matching pair of cufflinks signed by Wempe. Together, the retailer’s signature and the completeness of the ensemble enhance both its provenance and its historical significance.
As the Nautilus model celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, interest in early and rare configurations such as the present ref. 3800/003 continues to grow, highlighting the enduring significance of the design within Patek Philippe’s history.