147 Patek Philippe Fresh to the Market, Extremely Rare and Astonishing, Nautilus “Jumbo”, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Made for the Sultanate of Oman, With Extract from the Archives Confirming the Khanjar Logo, Reference 3700/1

Estimate: €500,000 –⁠ 1,000,000

Model: Nautilus
Reference: 3700/1
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1977
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 28-255
Case N°: 537361
Movement N°: 1305238
Dimensions: 42 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives
Literature: A similar watch was sold at Christie's “PASSION FOR TIME - AN IMPORTANT PRIVATE COLLECTION OF WATCHES AND TIMEPIECES” Auction Geneva, 6th November 2023 as lot 2107 for 1,134,000 CHF

The Patek Philippe reference 3700, presented here, epitomizes rare elegance and exclusivity, making it one of the most sought-after Nautilus models to ever grace an auction. Its breath-taking design is further accentuated by the distinguished gold Khanjar emblem, gracefully positioned at 6 o'clock, lending it a regal allure. This captivating timepiece exudes a sense of royalty and is recognized as one of the rarest Khanjar watches in existence, adding a layer of mystique that amplifies its allure. Marking its debut on the auction stage, this vintage treasure, enveloped in near-mythical prestige, has until now remained under the radar of scholarly scrutiny. Within the exclusive realm of yellow-gold Nautilus reference 3700 adorned with the distinctive “Khanjar” dial, only four were acknowledged worldwide until the recent unveiling of this exceptional fifth example. The discovery of this gold Nautilus “Khanjar” represents a significant find, remarkably preserved in its original condition. Set against a black channelled background, the dial features the resplendent gold “Khanjar” emblem of the Sultanate of Oman elegantly positioned above the 6 o'clock marker. This addition enhances the collection of the previously known yellow-gold examples, with close proximity in movement and case numbers corroborating their shared origin — a special order for His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. A connoisseur of fine watches, His Majesty gifted numerous timepieces as symbols of appreciation, some of which have secured their place in the annals of modern horological history. These gifts, ranging from simple timepieces to exquisite Patek Philippe watches, were presented to loyal servants, members of his administration, and citizens, each marking the significance of the occasion. For Nautilus aficionados and collectors of Omani-designated watches alike, the unveiling of this timepiece offers a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most exclusive iterations of the landmark reference 3700/1. The original Nautilus reference 3700/1 case design, crafted under patent on April 23, 1976, by Favre-Perret S.A., Le Crêt du Locle, transitioned to Patek Philippe's Ateliers Réunis workshops in 1981. Its innovative dual-part structure, secured by lateral screws and a pioneering rubber seal, ensures an impeccable watertight seal under pressure. The Extract from the Archives confirms the yellow-gold case, bracelet, and dial, featuring gold baton hour markers and, notably, the unprecedented inclusion of the Coat of Arms. This Patek Philippe Nautilus, distinguished by its historical significance, newfound rarity, and exceptional exclusivity, emerges as a pinnacle of recent auction history.