207 Patek Philippe Very Rare and Absolutely Precious, Nautilus, Automatic Wristwatch in Platinum, Diamond-Set Bezel and Indexes, With Extract from the Archives, Reference 3800/3

Estimate: €90,000 –⁠ 180,000

Model: Nautilus
Reference: 3800/3
Case Material: Platinum
Bracelet Material: Platinum
Year: 1987
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 335SC
Case N°: 2 819 649
Movement N°: 1 426 159
Dimensions: 37.5 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
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 42 mm of the case passed to 37.5, 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 most important evolution between ref. 3700 and 3800 is the addition of a center seconds hand indicating a mechanical upgrade with the adoption of the Patek Philippe caliber 335SC and variants. Over the course of its production starting in 1981 and ending in 2006, the reference was the most fruitful Nautilus model offering collectors a wide array of materials and dial options, making it one of the most interesting Nautilus references to collect. While it is indeed that some examples and variants are rarer than others, platinum examples of the references are considered one of the rarest. The present 3800/3 is part of this small series realized in platinum with some definitely rare details. The first thing that strikes is, of course, its beautiful conservation of both case and bracelet with very minimum signs of wearing. Second, and most important of all, the dark blue sigma dial is simply astonishing with its iconic horizontal channels embellished with the 11 diamonds used as indexes. Finally, the gorgeous diamond-set bezel that recalls the motif on the dial and make the present watch extremely precious. This is a rare and delightful opportunity for collectors seeking the rare and illusive platinum ref. 3800/3.