Timeless Elegance: Five Standout Nautilus Models Readily Available
We're excited to share four exceptional Patek Philippe Nautilus watches attainable in today's market. From rare vintage models to sought-after modern reissues, each piece honors Gerald Genta's visionary design. Their appeal derives as much from the purity of form as the prestige of the Patek brand.
So, whether you seek an iconic birthday present or neo-vintage refinement, these selections epitomize the luxury sports category. Impeccably crafted, they make sublime heirlooms to cherish for generations.
The Patek Philippe Nautilus has transcended legend since its debut over 45 years ago, conceived by the masterful Gerald Genta. While variants abound today, we maintain the original design captures Genta's genius most purely. Our appreciation was cemented after encountering an unpolished reference 3700/1A —the very first model. Keeping faith with Genta's pioneering vision, we've curated four exceptional examples closely echoing his 1970s concept, including a highly coveted 5711. Though not inexpensive, current prices reflect a more accessible range than recent years — just as collecting enthusiasm has somewhat receded post-pandemic. These authentic representations honor Patek Philippe's partnership with Genta to establish a design for the ages.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800/1A
While the original 37mm Reference 3700 took the 1970s market some time to appreciate, Patek Phillipe reacted by introducing the smaller 37.5mm Reference 3800. Its secondary dial-side second hand made reading the time more intuitive, allowing the timepiece to connect more broadly. Less famous than its larger sibling today, the Reference 3800 nevertheless served a pivotal part in the Nautilus line achieving mainstream recognition. Its refined elegance, aided by user-friendly design tweaks, helped win over a wider audience to Gerald Genta's avant-garde vision.
In forging a balance of form and function that satisfied diverse tastes, the Reference 3800 was instrumental in taking the Nautilus collection from a novelty to the icon it is revered as today. For the role it played in the name's rise, this quasi-vintage reference deserves appreciation from aficionados of fine watchmaking history.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700
This distinctive example proudly bears the esteemed "Gübelin" imprint, marking it as a piece distributed through the prestigious European retailer with a rich legacy as a Patek partner. Not all sellers received the ability to similarly amplify provenance on dials.
As a result, double-signed 3700s hold enhanced collectibility. Their scarcity makes them a true prize for aficionados familiar with the Nautilus lineage. This example's dual signatures cement its place as a historically significant member of the reference's fixed catalog, as well as a highly investible asset for discerning collectors.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711
Introduced in 2006 for the Nautilus' 30th anniversary, the reference 5711 modernized the legendary design with discrete refinements - most notably, the addition of a second hand for enhanced usability. This example from the infancy of the reference in 2007 exudes pristine condition. Its faded blue dial and textural finishing remain as new, while the case and integrated bracelet exhibit mere trivial signs of enjoyment over the past 15 years.
Embodying both vintage sentimentality and state-of-the-art craft, the 5711 has established itself as the archetypal Nautilus. Lightly pre-owned examples like this one allow discerning collectors to experience Gerald Genta's visionary creation with contemporary refinement and accuracy. Destined to grace wrists for generations of appreciative wearing to come, it offers a truly exceptional luxury sports watch experience.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700J
Culminating our lineup of prized 3700 references is this exceptional yellow gold specimen stamped "3700J". Only around 1,500 of these seminal models were crafted, adding immense rarity and prestige. Most remarkably, it features a tropical dial showcasing the even, mellowed patina so coveted by collectors who appreciate the artistic effects of natural aging. Here, the warm discoloration perfectly complements the solid gold case and integrated bracelet. Rather than impairing legibility, the soft erosion enhances this watch’s personality through accumulated character. It stands as a testament to the Nautilus’s endurance through the annals of time. Precious few tropical 3700Js exist, rendering this an especially prized find for connoisseurs. An art piece unto itself, the watch invites appreciation for not just craftsmanship but also the passage of decades.