PATEK PHILIPPE JUMBO NAUTILUS
Made in 1980, the Patek Philippe Jumbo Nautilus Ref. 3700/1 highlights the simple style and new ideas that changed luxury sports watches.
Specifications
Maker: Patek Philippe
Model: Jumbo Nautilus
Reference: 3700/1
Year: 1980
Serial: 539.343 / 1.309.407
Material: Stainless Steel
Dial: Swiss only, second E of Geneve, Service Dial
Dimensions: 42mm
Crystal: Sapphire / Scratch at 2 o'clock
Clasp: Stainless Steel Folding Clasp Period Correct
Box & Papers: Box and Archive
Legacy
The Nautilus 3700/1 has graced the wrists of several notable figures, underscoring its status as a symbol of refined taste. Brad Pitt, acclaimed actor and style icon, has been seen wearing a vintage Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700 'Jumbo', reflecting his appreciation for timeless design.GQSimilarly, Sylvester Stallone, known for his influential presence in both film and watch collecting, has included the Nautilus in his esteemed collection.New York PostAdditionally, the late Italian film director Sergio Leone, celebrated for his contributions to cinema, was known to wear the Nautilus, further cementing its association with individuals of distinguished taste.Time and Tide Watches
How to pair it
Boardroom Brilliance
Activity: A high-stakes business presentation.
Outfit: A sharply tailored navy suit, crisp white Oxford shirt, and black leather oxford shoes.
The Jumbo Nautilus 3700/1 is the ultimate power move for the boardroom. Its sleek stainless steel casing mirrors the sharp lines of a tailored suit, while the subtle shimmer of its service dial complements the quiet confidence exuded by a perfectly knotted silk tie. The 42mm diameter strikes an ideal balance—commanding attention without dominating the wrist. Pair it with a pocket square in a muted tone for a cohesive look that whispers authority. Let the Nautilus peek from under your cuff during a decisive gesture, a testament to your impeccable taste.
Weekend Leisure
Activity: A leisurely brunch followed by a stroll through the city.
Outfit: A cashmere crewneck sweater in earthy tones, beige chinos, and clean white leather sneakers.
Off-duty doesn’t mean off-style. The Jumbo Nautilus, with its iconic Gerald Genta design, effortlessly bridges luxury and casual chic. The brushed stainless steel pairs beautifully with warm textures like cashmere, while its bold, geometric aesthetic adds a modern edge to an otherwise understated outfit. Swap the sneakers for suede loafers if you plan to dine al fresco at a more upscale spot. This pairing strikes the perfect balance between approachable sophistication and everyday comfort.
Gala Night Glamour
Activity: A black-tie charity gala.
Outfit: A classic black tuxedo, pleated white dress shirt, satin bow tie, and patent leather shoes.
Yes, a stainless steel sports watch can absolutely shine in formal settings. The Jumbo Nautilus proves its adaptability by offering a subtle contrast to the formality of a tuxedo. Its understated elegance and the craftsmanship evident in its details make it a bold yet refined choice for evening events. The scratch at 2 o’clock? A reminder of the stories this timepiece has witnessed—lending it a touch of character in a sea of flawless accessories. Keep other jewelry minimal to let the watch be the centerpiece of your ensemble.
Condition
The Patek Philippe Jumbo Nautilus Reference 3700/1, dating to 1980, is a quintessential embodiment of luxury sports watches, blending timeless design with the enduring allure of Gérald Genta’s vision. Crafted in stainless steel, this iconic timepiece remains a testament to Patek Philippe's unmatched craftsmanship and innovation in the horological world.
Case & Crystal
The 42mm monobloc case, executed in brushed and polished stainless steel, exhibits a gently worn patina that speaks to its authentic vintage character. Its integrated design, with the signature rounded octagonal bezel, retains sharp, defined edges, underscoring the precision of its original craftsmanship. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, bearing a subtle yet noticeable scratch at 2 o’clock—a faint imperfection that reflects its storied journey through time.
Dial
The Swiss-only dial, indicative of a service replacement, stands out with its distinctive “second E” in Geneve. The horizontal grooves stretch across a deep, velvety black surface, offering depth and texture under varying light. Its applied white gold markers and slim baton hands maintain impeccable alignment and provide a clean, minimalist aesthetic. The absence of a seconds hand accentuates the refined simplicity of the Jumbo Nautilus, inviting a sense of serene timekeeping.
Movement
Inside beats the Caliber 28-255C, a slim and robust automatic movement derived from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s revered caliber 920. Known for its precision and reliability, this movement is a marvel of mechanical engineering, befitting the prestige of the Nautilus lineage. Recently serviced, it promises smooth, accurate performance for decades to come.
Bracelet & Clasp
The integrated stainless steel bracelet flows seamlessly into the case, embodying Genta’s groundbreaking design ethos. Its polished center links and brushed outer links retain a crisp finish, exuding elegance without ostentation. The folding clasp, period-correct and stamped with the Patek Philippe insignia, offers a secure yet refined closure.
Accessories
Completing this exceptional offering is the original presentation box and an Archive Extract, authenticating its rich provenance and tying its history back to the golden era of luxury sports watches.
Final Thoughts
This Patek Philippe Jumbo Nautilus Reference 3700/1 is a confluence of bold design, peerless craftsmanship, and storied legacy. Its lived-in charm—a graceful balance of minor imperfections and enduring beauty—tells a tale of decades well-lived. Whether a centerpiece in a seasoned collector's portfolio or an introduction to the rarified world of vintage Patek Philippe, this Nautilus embodies the timeless spirit of one of horology’s most coveted creations.
We’ve tested the watch to ensure proper functioning. On average, it runs +6 seconds per day, with an amplitude of 256 degrees and a beat error of 0.0ms. These results, obtained using one of our instruments, indicate good performance, but please note that we cannot guarantee precision, accuracy, or waterproofness.
The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.
If you desire a complete service, we can provide it at an additional cost, with a warranty of at least one year for precision and accuracy (not for waterproofness).
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