Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Nautilus Ref. 3700 with Original Diamonds, Only Known Example

Few watches have reshaped the course of modern horology as profoundly as the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 3700. Designed by Gerald Genta and introduced in 1976, the Nautilus redefined luxury sports watches through its bold proportions, integrated bracelet, and unapologetically modern aesthetic. While the reference is most commonly encountered in stainless steel, its rare precious-metal executions reveal an entirely differentand far more elusiveside of the Nautilus story.

This extraordinary example is the only known Ref. 3700/15 in existence, a designation of exceptional importance. The suffix 15 specifically denotes the watchs unique factory configuration: a three-row diamond-set bezel paired with diamond-set center links on the integrated bracelet. No other Nautilus 3700 is known to have been produced with this exact combination, placing this watch in a category entirely of its own within Patek Philippe scholarship.

Crafted in yellow gold, the iconic porthole case is framed by the three-row diamond bezel, meticulously set to follow the Nautilus distinctive octagonal geometry while preserving its architectural integrity. The brilliance of the bezel flows seamlessly into the bracelet, where the center links are factory diamond-set, creating a continuous, cohesive design that balances extravagance with unmistakable restraint.

The dial further reinforces the watchs singular character. Executed in a deep blue ribbed finish, it retains the horizontal embossing that defines the Nautilus identity, here accented by subtle diamond hour markers that add depth and light without overwhelming the design. The result is a dial that remains resolutely Nautilussporting, legible, and confidentwhile elevated through carefully considered gem-setting.

Preserved in wonderful original condition, the case retains strong definition and crisp transitions, and the bracelet remains tight and beautifully articulatedattributes that are increasingly rare among early gold Nautilus examples. Completing the watchs provenance is a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming its original sale in 1981, firmly situating it within the formative years of Nautilus production.

Unique, audacious, and historically significant, this Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 3700/15 stands as a singular expression of the models potential at the intersection of high design and high jewelry. As the only known example of its kind, it represents not merely a rare Nautilus, but a one-of-one artifact within the canon of Patek Philippean opportunity that transcends conventional collecting categories.