178 Patek Philippe A very attractive and refined, automatic wristwatch in yellow gold, with original certificate and presentation box.

Estimate: € 50,000 –⁠ 100,000

Sold (Premium)€71,500

ModelNautilus
Reference3800/001
Case MaterialYellow gold
Bracelet MaterialYellow gold Patek Philippe bracelet, approximate length 215mm
Year1986
MovementAutomatic, cal. 335SC, 29 jewels
Case N°2'810'785
Movement N°1'423'742
Dimensions37.5mm Diameter
SignedDial, Movement and Case
AccessoriesAccompanied by certificate of origin dated Sept. 12th, 1986, and signed Salvadori Venezia, booklets, hang tag, recipt signed Salvadori Venezia and fitted presentation box

Introduced in 1981, the Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3800 was conceived as a more compact version of the iconic reference 3700, offering a 37.5 mm case that makes it a highly versatile and elegantly proportioned timepiece for both men and women. Despite its reduced dimensions, the reference 3800 retains all the signature design elements that define the Nautilus lineage: the distinctive porthole-inspired case, seamlessly integrated bracelet, elongated baton hour markers, and the unmistakable horizontally embossed dial. One notable departure from the larger reference 3700 is the inclusion of a central sweeping seconds hand, adding a subtle yet practical enhancement to the watch’s functionality. First series models, like the present example, are powered by the cal. 335 SC (without quickset date); later examples would go on to be powered by the upgraded cal. 330-134 & 330-194. The present 1986 yellow-gold example of reference 3800 is exceedingly well preserved and is further paired with a champagne dial, which is confirmed by the Certificate of Origin. The bracelet further retains strong rigidity, while the case back hallmarks are very deep and visible. Finally, to add to its rarity, the original invoice is also present and states that the watch was sold for Lire 15.2M on the 12th of September 1989, definitely a great farewell to summer of '89.