Signed Patek Philippe, Genève, Nautilus model, Ref. 3700/011, movement no. 1’308’365, case no. 558’701, manufactured in 1982

Fresh to the market, this beautiful Gübelin retailed yellow gold Nautilus “Jumbo” is, along with the white gold 3700/1, one of the most desirable and collectible of the 3700 references. It is carefully preserved in excellent condition, furthermore the dial has tropicalized to a dramatic and eye-catching golden glow perfectly harmonizing with the yellow gold case. The additional very rare diamond-set dial with Gübelin signature could be fitted as an alternative if desired. According to the present owner, an esteemed client of Gübelin, the diamond-set dial was fitted at his request shortly after he bought the watch from the Basel store in 1982, the original certificate of origin being rubber-stamped by them at that time. Gübelin who are one of Patek Philippe’s longest standing and respected agents had the dial co-signed for this important commission and thus created a great rarity.
The yellow gold Nautilus, reference 3700/011 was made in only small numbers and has naturally become one of the most sought after of the “Jumbo” watches. The new reference was introduced around 1981 when Patek started to make the cases for the Nautilus in their Ateliers Réunis workshops. With the launch of the reference 3700/011 a narrower “second generation” bracelet with a width of 14 mm. was introduced. It had 16 fixed links and 8 removable links. According to our research, a total of approximately 1'500 reference 3700 were produced in yellow gold between 1976 and 1998 which is less than 70 pieces per year.