135 Patek Philippe Precious and Very Rare Nautilus Automatic Wristwatch in Platinum, Reference 3800/3, With Diamond-Set Bezel, Indexes and Special Ceramic White Dial, With Platinum Bracelet

Estimate: €80,000 –⁠ 160,000

Model: Nautilus
Material: Platinum
Reference N°: 694022
Year: 1992
Case N°: 2905699
Caliber: 335
Movement type: Automatic
Movement N°: 1429577
Bracelet: Platinum
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives

Although it has been appreciated since its market introduction in 1976, the Nautilus received some criticism for being too large in diameter compared to the standards of the period. So it was that 4 years later Patek Philippe decided to launch a reference of smaller dimensions and more in line with the general tastes: the 3800. The style and the design remained unchanged, they only changed the dimensions that from the initial 42mm of the case passed 37, while the two-ears at the sides of the case, the integrated bracelet that tapered to the buckle and the iconic smoothened octagonal bezel stayed the same. The reference was in production from 1981 to 2006 when was replaced by reference 5800.
The present lot 3800/3 is part of a small series realized in platinum with some definitely rare details. The first think that strikes is of course its beautiful conservation of both case and bracelet with very minimum signs of wearing. Looking at the bezel is clear and evident its fineness with 40 diamonds brilliant cut of 0.87 carats each as testified by the extract. Second detail, the caliber, which is the 335 with the appreciated quick-set date mechanis and sweep second hand. Third, and most important of all, the almost unique ceramic white dial, as confirmed by the extract. Its ivory color is simply astonishing and fits perfectly with the platinum of the case, but to make this watch so special aren’t only the 11 diamonds used as indexes, but its unusual entirely smooth structure and devoid of the iconic horizontal channels. Usually this type of dials were equipped on yellow gold Nautilus 3800 and it’s a real quest finding one on a platinum case. Accompanied by the extract from the archives confirming its production in 1992 and subsequent sale on the 31st March of the same year, this watch makes a wonderful statement about watches and jewellery and is a good size for both man or woman.