Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700: Original vs. Later
Vintage

Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700: Original vs. Later

By dr.kol · Aug 9, 2016 · 57 replies
dr.kol
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
57 replies20005 views13 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

dr.kol provides a comparative overview of the original Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 3700, focusing on the differences between the 3700/001 and 3700/011 references. His personal impressions and detailed photographs offer collectors a unique perspective on these vintage models, especially as the Nautilus approached its 40th anniversary. This post serves as an excellent companion to more technical guides, offering practical insights into ownership.


First of all, the Guru of all Nautilus 3700 Gurus is Marco a.k.a  mstanga. When I bought my second 3700, I called to Marco and got really valuable advice. So if you want to get more detailed information about Nautilus 3700, check Marco\s outstanding posts.

My post is supposed to be more entertaining and give some personal impressions. Okay?

Nautilus 3700 was produced from 1976. The first reference was 3700/001 and the second one 3700/011.

Here are both versions in their boxes.









But what are the main differences?

Weight of 3700/001





And the weight of 3700/011





The bracelets of both watches are having the same length for my wrist but the latter version is much lighter...

Just to compare, the weight of 5711





The reason why the latter version, 3700/011 is lighter is quite obvious when you look at the following pictures.

The width of the bracelet of 3700/001





And then 3700/011





To be honest, the slimmer version feels very good on the wrist.





From Marco\s writings you will find the production years and estimated production numbers of both versions. In fact, the original version 3700/001 is more common then the newer 3700/011.

Nautilus 3700 is a slim watch. Both versions share the same thickness.





Let us compare it with the current 5711.






I discussed earlier the other main Nautilus models 3712 vs. 5712. Have a look at the design of the ears of 3700 vs. 3712. You will see that they are basically the same.





And now have a looks at 5711 compared with 3700. The new 5712 has the same design as 5711.





Never mind which version of 3700 we speak, the Original Nautilus is a fantastic watch and feels very good on the wrist.





I am very lucky to have both versions totally complete and in new/like condition. Now I can focus on waiting to see how the 40th Anniversary Nautilus will look like.

I hope this short and shallow post will help you to appreciate even more the 40 years long history of Patek Philippe Nautilus.

Thanks for reading and best,

Kari




About the Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711

The Patek Philippe reference 5711/1A-011, part of the Complications collection, is distinguished by its white dial, offering a different aesthetic compared to other dial variations within the 5711 series. This particular configuration provides a clean and legible presentation, appealing to collectors who prefer a more understated yet refined look. It represents a specific iteration of a well-known Patek Philippe model, recognized for its integrated design.

The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 26-330 SC movement. This movement provides a power reserve of 45 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its water resistance of 120 meters. The fixed bezel and integrated bracelet are characteristic elements of its construction.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in the evolution of Patek Philippe's offerings, particularly those seeking specific dial colors within established model lines. Its production run from 2019 to 2021 marks it as a relatively recent, yet now discontinued, variant. The watch's specifications align with Patek Philippe's standards for mechanical timepieces.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal.26-330 SC
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
White
Water Resist.
120m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
GE
gensiulia
Aug 9, 2016

...in 10 days you killed me twice. great informative post, and...wow...what a stunning Nautilus collection Sir.! so, voices from my side say: a Perpetual Calendar Nautilus and/or a "new 5711" without the seconds hand. what's your thoughts? Thanks, Kari Chris

DR
dr.kol
Aug 9, 2016

My original guess was a perpetual with 240Q movement. But knowing that Patek plans in advance, I believe it will be the 50th Anniversary watch. This year I expect/hope a Nautilus with the same movement as 5960. Then I guess there will be a simple Nautilus or renewed 5711. Finally, something in gold or even platinum on strap. I will visit the factory to meet some guys still in August. I asked to see the place where the anniversary Nautilus is produced but Patek refused with a laugh. Best, Kari

MA
Maltie
Aug 9, 2016

Knowing that Patek is most likely going to discontinue the 5960, one could imagine they reuse it for the Nautilus 40th but isn\'t that a kinda cheap approach to reuse an existing movement for such an important celebration watch, as the 40th Nautilus. A platinum 5711 without second hand would be more special IMHO.

AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
Aug 9, 2016

The Nautilus for me and in such cool boxes Cordially D

DR
dr.kol
Aug 9, 2016

but I doubt they are doing anything like that. But naturally, I can be as wrong as nobody else and thus, my guesses have no value whatsoever. Best, Kari

DR
dr.kol
Aug 9, 2016

I just crabbed every main Nautilus version which was made in steel and came with blue dial. But I love to wear them all! Best, Kari

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Patek Philippe forum with 57 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →