Patek Philippe, with the introduction of the Nautilus in 1976, created one of the most iconic and classic wristwatches of the late 20th century. It was a new era of luxury and glamour.

Gérald Genta’s design, inspired by the portholes of transatlantic ocean liners, was named after Captain Nemo’s Nautilus submarine from Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. The “Jumbo” case with wide flat bezel, integrated link bracelet, and ultra-thin automatic movement was strikingly different than the small, round, yellow gold hand-wound watches that dominated the era.

Previously purchased at auction in 2016 by the consignor, this exceptionally rare white gold Nautilus is fitted with its original dial with luminous baton hour markers, confirmed by the Extract from the Archives. The case is in remarkable condition with its original factory polished and brushed finishing present, while the dial has developed an almost fumé blue-black effect, with traces of pleasing tropicalization beginning to appear. Its bracelet is in a similar, well-preserved state of preservation, remaining taut, with crisp finishing throughout, clearly indicating it was hardly worn throughout its nearly 50-year life.

Only nine examples of the white gold Nautilus reference 3700 are known, and recently, Patek Philippe saw fit to pay tribute to these few early examples by releasing the reference 5811/1G. Offered with its Extract from the Archives confirming production in 1978, the heft and luminosity of the 3700 in white gold provides it immense wrist presence.

The condition and ultimate rarity of this white gold Nautilus make it a must-have trophy watch for the discerning collector.