1983 Patek Philippe Nautilus (Ref. 3800/1) W/ Box, Original Papers, & Double Extracts

Designed by Gerald Genta, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is a 1970s icon. Although the Nautilus reference 3700, AKA the 42mm diameter “jumbo” case model, was the original Genta design offered by Patek Philippe. The result of the underachieving release determined that the watch enthusiast market wasn't ready for a watch that large, at that time.

In 1981 while the 3700 was still in production, Patek Philippe acknowledged its critics, by presenting a watch that was more in line with its typical luxury design standards by introducing a slightly smaller version of the Nautilus reference to gain commercial viability traction via reference 3800/1. Apart from the physical size difference of 37.5mm, the Patek Phillipe ref. 3800/1 carries with it many similar design traits as its bigger brother with a monobloc case, an integrated bracelet that tapers to the buckle, and the iconic rounded octagonal bezel. Aside from the case size, the most obvious difference is the addition of a sweep second hand which is of course not seen in the ref. 3700 series. There is also a subtle difference in the font of the date wheel. 

The Nautilus is a design icon and has set the standard for the perfect anywhere anytime style of watch that could pair with the most formal of formal to the most casual of casual.