153 Patek Philippe Very Precious and Absolutely Rare, Nautilus in Yellow Gold, Three Rows Diamond-Set Bezel and Champagne Diamonds Indexes Dial, With Special Order Additional Bezel and Black Diamond Dial, All Confirmed Extract from Archives, Reference 3700/16

Estimate: €180,000 –⁠ 360,000

Model: Nautilus
Reference: 3700/16
Case Material: Yellow Gold and Diamonds
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1979
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 28-255 C
Case N°: 549461
Movement N°: 1309005
Dimensions: 42 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Additional Bezel, Additional Champagne Diamond Dial, Original Patek Philippe Period Box and Extract from the Archives

Patek Philippe has long been renowned for its ability to cater to special orders, allowing its most discerning clients to customize their timepieces to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces. These bespoke pieces elevate the prestige of an already iconic brand, offering rarity and personalization that few other manufacturers can rival. This particular Patek Philippe Nautilus, reference 3700/16, is a stellar example of such a unique creation. Crafted in luxurious yellow gold, it stands apart due to its dazzling bezel, which features three rows of brilliant-cut diamonds—a design feature that is exceedingly rare, as most diamond-set Nautilus models only display two rows of stones. The extra row of diamonds adds an additional layer of brilliance and exclusivity, making this timepiece a true statement piece. Further enhancing its desirability is the inclusion of an extract from the Patek Philippe Archives, which confirms the original owner requested an additional bezel without diamonds to accompany the watch, a rare concession from the brand and a clear indication of the owner’s close relationship with Patek Philippe. The extract also mentions the original creation of the watch with a gilded dial featuring 11 diamond markers, which indeed nowadays accompanies the timepiece. However, as with the bezel, the first owner requested and obtained from the boutique the addition of a matte black ribbed dial with diamonds, which contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the yellow-gold case and bracelet, offering a perfect blend of elegance and functionality. This watch, with the two bezels and two dials, confirmed by the extract, becomes an extraordinary and unique special order piece. It exemplifies the deep relationships between Patek and some of its special clients, transcending the mere purchase but creating connections that evolve into truly unique opportunities for enthusiasts and collectors alike like the present watch.