In order to survive, Patek Philippe launched the Nautilus. It was a reaction to the massive decline in sales due to the introduction of quartz watches. Audemars Piguet released the Royal Oak in 1972, creating a new breed of timepieces: luxury sports watches. Patek Philippe turned to the same designer, Gerald Genta, to create a similar piece. The Nautilus was Patek Philippe's venture into a new species of watches. Initially, this groundbreaking -porthole inspired- model was launched in steel; yet carried the exorbitant price tag of 3750 Rs.
However, as it quickly gained popularity, more opulent versions were introduced. The example we have on offer is executed in 18k yellow gold from the "2nd series", meaning it is a 3700/11 rather than its more common 3700/1. The difference lies in the case and bracelet construction, with the former being produced by Atelier Reunis. Patek Philippe switched in the early 80's and created approximately five hundred /11J, they released twice as much /1. The biggest distinction in the way it wears lies in the bracelet. The links on the 2nd series are longer and the bracelet is more tapered; arguably making it slightly more elegant.
The dial is most certainly iconic. Showcasing once again, they are taking it a step further (in terms of finishing) than sport watch counterparts from other brands. The embossed bars on the dark surface -or "ribbed" as the maison describes it- adds grandeur to an otherwise straightforward dial lay-out.. The applied indices are baton shaped, and just like the hands, are filled with tritium as luminescent compound. The absence of an hour markers at the 3 o'clock position allows the date function to be present. Even though the color is always described as "Matte black" on the extract, in reality it is so much more rich; ranging from dark blue to anthracite.
To emphasise once more the Nautilus isn't just a utility watch, Patek Philippe relied on one of the thinnest and finest automatic movements. Cal. 28-255C is based on the renowned 920 from Jaeger-LeCoultre. The movement has just undergone a full service and is ready to be your loyal and punctual servant for the upcoming years.
Furthermore, it comes with an extract of the archive and a rare dealer booklet displaying this exact configuration, dated the same month and year as the watch was sold: October 1982. Unparalleled rarity captured in a design that has stood the test of time. "Jumbo" in size, "Great" in demand and "Mega" in historical significance.
Use collapsible tabs for more detailed information that will help customers make a purchasing decision.
Ex: Shipping and return policies, size guides, and other common questions.
