Sell Your Patek Philippe Nautilus Watch | Expert Buyer in the Hamptons, New York | Glenn Bradford Fine Jewelry
Glenn Bradford Fine Jewelry · Southampton & New York
Sell Your
Patek Philippe Nautilus.
From the 1976 Jumbo that Gerald Genta sketched on a restaurant napkin — the watch that redefined what Patek Philippe could be — to the current generation. Vintage Nautilus specialists with auction-record provenance and nearly 40 years in the market.
Vintage Specialists
3700 Jumbo Collectors
Tropical · Sigma · First Edition
1976
Birth of the Nautilus — Ref. 3700
3700
Our Deepest Collecting Passion
40 Yrs
GBFJ Collector Experience
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What We Purchase
Every Nautilus, Every Era
Ref. 3700/1A — First Edition Jumbo
1976–1979 · Cal. 28-255 C (JLC 920 base) · 42mm · Steel · ~2,600 produced · World Record Auction Provenance
The original Nautilus and the watch we know most deeply. Designed by Gérald Genta over dinner at the Basel Watch Fair in 1974 — a porthole-shaped case sketched on a napkin — the 3700/1A launched in 1976 as "one of the world's most costly watches in steel." Patek produced approximately 2,600 First Edition examples, relying on Favre-Perret for each case and Stern Frères for each dial. The Cal. 28-255 C, built on the JLC 920 base and heavily modified by Patek, remains to this day the thinnest self-winding movement with a center rotor ever produced. First Edition cases carry an 18mm clasp width; the bracelet links are fuller. Sigma markers — the Greek letter Σ flanking the "Swiss Made" text — indicate 18k white gold applied hour markers, found on finest examples. We currently own what is recognized as the finest known First Edition 3700/1A in existence — the example that set the auction record at Sotheby's in May 2019. We purchase all First Edition 3700/1A watches at full collector premiums and are the most qualified private buyer in the world for this reference.
Ref. 3700 — Double-Signed: Gübelin, Beyer, Tiffany & Co., Asprey
Retailer co-signed dials · Among the rarest 3700 configurations · Available in steel and precious metals
A small number of ref. 3700 Nautiluses were retailed with the dealer's name printed on the dial alongside Patek Philippe — one of the highest honors in the retailer–manufacturer relationship. The four known signing retailers are Gübelin (Lucerne), Beyer Chronometrie (Zurich — the oldest watch retailer in the world, selling Patek Philippe since approximately 1842), Tiffany & Co. (New York), and Asprey (London). Gübelin-signed examples exist in both steel and yellow gold, with only five known gold examples; Beyer-signed examples have appeared in steel; Tiffany-signed 3700s exist in steel with black dials and Roman numerals as well as standard blue configurations. Each double-signed dial commands roughly double the premium of an equivalent single-signed example. These are among the most coveted of all Nautilus collector pieces and we purchase them at full double-signature market value.
Ref. 3700 — Khanjar "Sultan of Oman" · Royal Provenance via Asprey
Made 1977–1978 for H.M. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said · Steel · Yellow Gold · White Gold · Retailed by Asprey London & Geneva
Among the most historically significant Nautilus watches ever produced. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman commissioned a series of ref. 3700 Nautiluses featuring the royal Khanjar — the crowned Omani dagger — printed on the dial as his personal emblem of authority. With no authorized Patek retailers in Oman at the time, all were ordered through Asprey of New Bond Street, London, or on rare occasions through Asprey Geneva. Examples exist in steel (approximately three known), yellow gold (approximately six known, delivered as a royal batch in 1977–1978 with consecutive serial numbers), and white gold (among the approximately twelve total known white gold 3700 examples). A white gold Khanjar example achieved EUR 1,300,000 at auction. These pieces represent one of the most compelling provenance narratives in all of watch collecting. We are fully equipped to evaluate and purchase any Khanjar Nautilus.
Ref. 3700 — Tropical Dial & "Albino" White Dial
Tropical dials · "Albino" white dial (unique) · Original patinated examples across all metals
Tropical dials on the 3700 — examples where the original Stern Frères blue-grey dial has oxidized to rich brown, caramel, or chocolate tones over decades — are among the most coveted configurations in vintage watch collecting, growing rarer as Patek service replaces originals. The "Albino" — a prototype 3700 with a unique white dial made by Stern Frères on special request, accompanied by a spare black dial as part of its delivery — sold for CHF 250,000 at Sotheby's in 2015 and is believed to be unique. We value tropical dials as collectors, not as dealers seeking pristine replacements, and purchase them at the premiums they genuinely deserve.
Ref. 3700 — White Gold & Platinum
White gold (~12 known total, incl. Khanjar) · Platinum (~2 known) · Extreme precious-metal rarity
The ref. 3700 in white gold is among the rarest Nautilus configurations in existence — approximately twelve white gold examples are known in total, including the Khanjar pieces. The rarest of all: the platinum ref. 3700, of which only two examples are publicly documented. The first platinum example, with diamond markers, sold for CHF 783,750 at Christie's in 2013; the second, with a pavé diamond-set dial and bezel, sold for CHF 845,000 in 2015. To own any platinum or white gold 3700 is among the most serious statements a Nautilus collector can make. We purchase all precious-metal 3700 variants with full recognition of their extraordinary scarcity.
Ref. 3700/4 — Diamond-Set Yellow Gold
18k yellow gold · Factory diamond-set bezel & bracelet · Rare gem-set vintage Nautilus
A rare configuration within the 3700 family — the ref. 3700/4 in 18k yellow gold with a factory diamond-set bezel and bracelet, produced in very limited numbers. This represents Patek's early statement that the Nautilus could be elevated to full haute joaillerie. Examples have appeared at auction with Extracts from the Archives confirming original factory gem-setting. Purchased at full gem-set vintage premium.
Ref. 3700/11 — Second Edition Jumbo
1980–1990 · Cal. 28-255 C · 42mm · Steel · ~900 produced · Ateliers Réunis case
When Patek introduced the Second Edition in 1980, the case production shifted from Favre-Perret to Patek's in-house Ateliers Réunis workshop — the case reference changed to 3700/11 to reflect this. The bracelet clasp narrowed from 18mm to 16mm and the link profile became slightly more slender. At approximately 900 examples produced over a decade, the Second Edition is actually rarer by production numbers than the First — yet commands a lower collector premium, as the First Edition's early case construction and bracelet are preferred. Both are fully collectible Jumbo references. Purchased across all configurations.
Refs. 3700/1J, 3800/1J & Precious Metal Variants
Yellow gold · Two-tone steel and gold · White gold · Rose gold · All eras
Patek produced the Nautilus in 18k yellow gold from early in the 3700's production run. The yellow gold Jumbo — reference 3700/1J — is exceptionally rare, as the original 1976 advertising campaign paradoxically emphasized the steel version as a prestige object. The mid-size 3800 in yellow gold (3800/1J) brings the same collector logic at a smaller scale. Two-tone Nautilus examples across all generations are consistently desirable. Precious metal Nautiluses at every size and in every generation are purchased at full market value.
Ref. 3800 — Mid-Size Nautilus
1981–2006 · Cal. 335 SC / 330 SC · 37.5mm · Steel & Gold · Multiple dial generations
Introduced in 1981 as a more wearable alternative to the 42mm Jumbo, the 3800 ran for 25 years and produced the richest dial variation of any Nautilus reference. Early examples carry the classic horizontally grooved blue dial with baton indexes and tritium markers. From the mid-1990s Patek introduced Roman numeral dials on flat black and white dials — a design that previewed the aesthetic of the 3710 Comet. White-dial 3800 examples appear from approximately 1990 onward. A custom-order platinum 3800 with dauphine hands and radial indices is among the most extraordinary Nautilus variants ever produced. The 3800 was replaced by the 5800 in 2006. All generations, dials, and metals purchased.
Ref. 3710 "Comet" — First Complicated Nautilus
1998–2006 · Cal. 330 SC · 42mm · Steel · Power Reserve Indicator
The 3710 marked the return of Jumbo 42mm proportions after an eight-year gap following the 3700's 1990 discontinuation, and simultaneously introduced the first complication to the Nautilus family — a power reserve indicator positioned slightly offset from center at 12 o'clock. Roman numerals on a flat matte black dial gave the 3710 a very different character from the grooved-dial Nautilus tradition. Collectors nicknamed it "Comet" because the arcing power reserve scale resembled a celestial object streaking across the dial. Discontinued in 2006 when the 5711 arrived. A transitional reference with growing collector appreciation.
Refs. 3711, 3712 — Pre-Anniversary Transitional
3711/1G White Gold (2004–2006) · 3712/1A Steel (2005–2006) · Extremely short production
Two references produced for only one to two years each immediately before the 30th Anniversary 5711 redesign. The 3711/1G in white gold with Cal. 315 SC is exceptionally rare — commanding consistent secondary market premiums well above longer-run references — due to its limited window before the 5711 supplanted it. The 3712/1A introduced an asymmetric dial layout with an off-center small seconds and moonphase arrangement that directly foreshadowed the 5712. Both are transitional references appreciated by serious Nautilus collectors for their short production and historical position.
Ref. 5711 — The Modern Grail
2006–2021 · Cal. 315 SC / 324 SC · 40mm · Steel · Rose Gold · Platinum · Multiple dial generations
Introduced for the Nautilus's 30th anniversary, the 5711 became the defining luxury sports watch of the 21st century. The transition from Cal. 315 SC to 324 SC during its production run is documented by serial number for collectors. The olive-green dial 5711/1A-014 — introduced and discontinued within 2021 — is among the most sought-after modern watch configurations on the secondary market. The Tiffany blue dial 5711/1A-018, limited to 170 pieces to mark 170 years of partnership between Tiffany & Co. and Patek Philippe, sold at auction for USD 6.5 million in December 2021 — the most ever achieved for a steel sports watch. The 40th Anniversary platinum 5711/1P (2016, limited production) and the white gold 5976/1G are further landmark pieces within this generation. The 5711 was discontinued in 2022 when the 5811 succeeded it. All variants, metals, and dial colors purchased.
Ref. 5712 — Moon Phase & Power Reserve
2006–2025 · Cal. 240 PS IRM C LU · 40mm · Steel & Rose Gold · Asymmetric dial
The 5712 translates the 3712's asymmetric dial architecture into the modern Nautilus case, combining a moonphase, date, and power reserve indicator within the same 40mm footprint — a remarkable feat of dial engineering. The off-center small seconds and sub-dial arrangement gives the 5712 a more dynamic visual character than the time-only 5711. Available in steel on bracelet (5712/1A) and rose gold on leather (5712/1R), the latter representing a hybrid case/bracelet construction that set a new direction for the collection. Discontinued in 2025 when Patek announced a shift away from steel complications. All variants purchased.
Ref. 5726 — Annual Calendar
2010–present · Cal. 324 S QA LU 24H · 40.5mm · Steel & other metals
The first Nautilus to incorporate Patek Philippe's annual calendar complication — displaying day, date, month, and moonphase while automatically accounting for months of 30 and 31 days, requiring only one manual correction per year (at the end of February). Introduced in 2010 on a leather strap; the bracelet version followed in 2012. The 5726 is the connoisseur's daily Nautilus — worn and appreciated by collectors who want the full elegance of a Patek complication in a bracelet sports watch. Multiple dial generations and metal options purchased.
Refs. 5980 & 5990 — Flyback Chronograph
5980/1A Steel (2006–2014) · 5990/1A Steel (2014–present) · Travel Time variants · Rose Gold
The 5980 introduced the flyback chronograph to the Nautilus collection in 2006, with the stacked subdial at 6 o'clock housing both the 60-minute and 12-hour counters — Patek's first in-house flyback chronograph movement. The 5990, introduced in 2014, added a dual-time complication alongside the flyback chronograph — the most technically complex Nautilus ever produced — powered by Cal. CH 28-520 C FUS. White dial 5980/1A-19 examples are among the rarest modern Nautilus variants. All chronograph Nautilus references purchased, including rose gold and precious metal examples.
Ref. 5740 — Perpetual Calendar
2018–present · Cal. 240Q (micro-rotor) · 40mm · White Gold only
The apex of the Nautilus complications family. The 5740 places Patek's perpetual calendar — a complication that accounts for every variation in month length and correctly handles leap years — inside the Nautilus case, powered by the ultra-slim Cal. 240Q micro-rotor. Available only in white gold, the 5740 maintains a case height that seems impossible given its mechanical complexity. Waitlists for this reference have been measured in years. Purchased at full secondary market premiums.
Ref. 5811 — Current Generation Jumbo
2022–present · Cal. 26-330 S C · 41mm · White Gold · Two-part case construction
Patek's formal successor to the 5711, introduced in 2022 after the 5711's retirement. The 5811 steps up to 41mm and restores the two-part case construction — a direct visual echo of the original 3700 Jumbo — departing from the three-part case architecture that defined the 5711 era. Currently available only in white gold, the 5811 reflects Patek's stated direction away from steel complications. The upgrade to Cal. 26-330 S C brings improved accuracy and reliability over the 324 SC. Purchased at full retail-proximity values on the secondary market.
Ladies Nautilus, Gem-Set & Special Editions
7118 · 4700 · Diamond bezels & cases · Haute Joaillerie · Special orders
The ladies' Nautilus 7118 — available in steel and rose gold, with a 35.2mm case — carries the full visual language of the collection in a proportioned smaller format. Diamond-set bezels, fully pavé cases, and Haute Joaillerie configurations across all Nautilus references represent the apex of the collection's value and are purchased with full recognition of their extraordinary gemstone and horological worth. The vintage quartz ref. 4700 ladies' Nautilus from 1980 is a collectible piece in its own right. Special edition, anniversary, and charitable auction pieces also welcome.
Collector's Nickname Guide
Every Nautilus Nickname, Explained
J
Jumbo
3700 (First & Second Edition) · 42mm
The original large-case Nautilus — nicknamed "Jumbo" by collectors for its then-enormous 42mm diameter, which was considered oversized by 1976 standards when most dress watches sat at 34–36mm. The Jumbo designation distinguishes the large-format 3700 from the mid-size 3800. Today the 42mm Jumbo case is considered the defining form of the collection.
T
Tropical Dial
3700/1A · 3800/1A (select examples)
Vintage Nautilus dials that have oxidized from their original blue-grey tone to rich brown, caramel, or chocolate hues over decades of exposure to light, humidity, and environment. Tropical dials on the Nautilus — as on the Submariner and Daytona — are among the most coveted configurations in vintage watch collecting. They are irreproducible, unique to each individual watch, and increasingly rare as Patek service routinely replaces original dials. We value tropical dials as collectors, not dealers seeking pristine replacements.
Σ
Sigma Markers
3700/1A (First Edition finest examples)
On the finest First Edition 3700/1A examples, the text "Swiss Made" at the bottom of the dial is flanked by the Greek letter Sigma (Σ) — indicating that the applied stick hour markers are fabricated in 18k white gold, not steel. Sigma marking was Patek's way of denoting precious metal applied indices during this era. Its presence on a 3700 dial is a significant collector detail and a marker of the highest-specification examples.
☄
Comet
3710/1A (1998–2006)
Collectors nicknamed the ref. 3710 "Comet" because the arcing power-reserve scale — positioned slightly off-center at 12 o'clock — resembles a celestial body streaking across the dial. The 3710 was also the first Nautilus to use Roman numeral hour markers, giving it a very different visual character from the baton-indexed tradition of the collection.
T&C
Tiffany
5711/1A-018 · 170 pieces · 2021
The Tiffany blue dial 5711/1A-018, produced in a limited edition of 170 pieces to mark 170 years of partnership between Tiffany & Co. and Patek Philippe. All 170 examples were offered at retail through Tiffany boutiques. A single example — lot 222 at Phillips in December 2021 — sold for USD 6,503,500, setting the record for any stainless steel watch at auction. The cultural and financial significance of this reference places it in a category by itself among modern watches.
OG
Olive Green
5711/1A-014 · 2021
The final regular-production 5711 variant before Patek retired the reference — introduced at Watches & Wonders 2021 and discontinued the same year. The 5711/1A-014's olive-green sunburst dial was an immediate sensation, departing from the iconic blue for the first time in the reference's 15-year history. Its simultaneous introduction and discontinuation made it among the most in-demand modern Nautilus releases, commanding persistent secondary market premiums.
PT
White Gold & Platinum Nautilus
3700 White Gold (~12 known) · 3700 Platinum (~2 known) · 5711/1P (40th Anniversary) · 3800 Platinum (custom)
These are two distinct rarity tiers. The white gold 3700 — approximately twelve examples known in total (including Khanjar pieces) — is extraordinary. The platinum 3700 is in a category by itself: only two documented examples, both with diamond details, having achieved CHF 783,750 and CHF 845,000 respectively at auction. The modern 5711/1P in platinum, produced in limited numbers for the 40th anniversary in 2016, is rare in its own right. A custom-order platinum 3800 with dauphine hands and radial indices is an entirely singular piece.
KH
Khanjar
3700 in Steel · Yellow Gold · White Gold · Made for Sultan Qaboos of Oman via Asprey
The royal Omani Khanjar — the crowned dagger national emblem of the Sultanate of Oman — appears on a small series of ref. 3700 Nautiluses commissioned by Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. With no Patek retailers in Oman, all were ordered through Asprey London or Geneva. Serial numbers are clustered, confirming a single royal batch. Examples exist in steel (~3 known), yellow gold (~6 known), and white gold. A white gold Khanjar 3700 sold for EUR 1,300,000 at auction. Among the most important provenance stories in Nautilus collecting.
Double-Signed
3700 signed by Gübelin · Beyer · Tiffany & Co. · Asprey · At dial's 6 o'clock
When a prestigious retailer's name appears on the dial alongside Patek Philippe's, the watch is called "double-signed." In the 1970s and 1980s, this was a rare honor Patek extended to its most significant retail partners. On the 3700, the known signing retailers are Gübelin, Beyer Chronometrie, Tiffany & Co., and Asprey — each representing a different geography and collecting tradition. Double-signed dials command roughly double the premium of equivalent single-signed examples, sometimes more. The Asprey signature on a Khanjar Nautilus represents yet another layer of rarity on top of royal provenance.
First Edition
3700/1A (1976–1979) · Favre-Perret case · 18mm clasp
The term "First Edition" distinguishes the 1976–1979 production of the ref. 3700 — with cases made by Favre-Perret, the original fuller bracelet links, and the 18mm clasp width — from the Second Edition 3700/11 introduced in 1980. First Edition examples are preferred by collectors for their original construction and carry a meaningful premium over equally presented Second Edition pieces. The case number prefix is the primary identifier: First Edition cases fall within a specific numeric range distinct from the 3700/11 series.
What to Look For
Nautilus Details That Affect Value
The Nautilus has more value-affecting details per square centimeter than almost any other luxury sports watch. These are the configurations, dial states, and provenance markers that matter most to serious collectors — and that we evaluate with full precision.
First vs. Second Edition
The single most important distinction in vintage 3700 collecting. First Edition (Favre-Perret case, 18mm clasp, 1976–1979) vs. Second Edition (Ateliers Réunis case, 16mm clasp, 1980–1990). Identifiable by case number prefix and bracelet construction. First Edition commands a meaningful premium.
Sigma Dial Markers
The Sigma (Σ) symbol flanking "Swiss Made" on the finest First Edition 3700/1A examples indicates applied hour markers in 18k white gold rather than steel. Sigma dials are among the most prized configurations in the entire reference and are a critical detail in precise valuation.
Tropical Dial
Natural oxidation that has shifted the original blue-grey dial to brown, caramel, or chocolate tones. Irreproducible and unique to each watch's history. Increasingly rare as Patek servicing replaces original dials. We value tropical dials as collectors — they add premium, not deduction.
Original Unpolished Case
The Nautilus case combines brushed and polished surfaces in a deliberate pattern. Polishing during service blurs and eventually eliminates these distinctions, rounding crisp edges and flattening the alternating finishes. An unpolished, original-finish case is among the most critical value-determining factors for any vintage Nautilus.
Bracelet Condition & Stretch
The Nautilus integrated bracelet is a complex assembly of polished and brushed links. Bracelet stretch — the loosening of links over years of wear — is among the most common issues in vintage Nautilus ownership. Original, un-stretched bracelets with original links, pins, and clasp components command premiums. We assess bracelets precisely and adjust accordingly.
Retailer Signature
Certain vintage Nautiluses were retailed with the dealer's name on the dial alongside Patek Philippe — Gübelin, Beyer, or Tiffany & Co. being the most significant. A genuine retailer-signed dial is a rarity that adds substantial collector premium, as these pieces were produced in very small numbers and represent the highest level of the original retail relationship.
Extract from the Archives
Patek Philippe's Extract from the Archives confirms the production year, delivery date, original retailer, and original configuration of any individual watch. For vintage Nautiluses this document is of significant value, as it establishes authenticity and provenance. It is especially important for establishing whether a watch's current configuration (dial, bracelet) matches its original factory delivery.
Double-Signed Retailer Dials
Gübelin, Beyer, Tiffany & Co., and Asprey co-signed select 3700 dials at the original point of sale. The retailer's name appears at 6 o'clock alongside Patek Philippe. Genuine double-signed dials are verified by the original Certificate of Origin (which bears the retailer's stamp) and the Extract from the Archives. They command roughly double the premium of equivalent single-signed pieces — sometimes considerably more in the case of Gübelin gold or Beyer examples.
Khanjar Royal Emblem
On watches made for Sultan Qaboos of Oman, the royal Khanjar — crowned dagger — appears on the dial. All were ordered through Asprey. The Extract from the Archives confirms the Khanjar's presence in rare documented cases, which dramatically increases provenance value. Serial number clustering confirms royal batch origin. Any watch claiming Khanjar provenance must be verified against the known documented serial range.
Original Cork Presentation Box
Early Nautilus references were delivered in a distinctive cylindrical cork presentation box — an unusual and immediately recognizable packaging format. The presence of the original cork box with its outer sleeve significantly enhances the completeness of a vintage Nautilus presentation and increases desirability among collectors who prize fully original examples.
Complete Reference Directory
Every Nautilus Reference, Catalogued
Showing all references
The Original Jumbo — Ref. 3700 Family (1976–1990)
3700/1A — First Edition, Steel, Blue-Grey Dial
1976–1979; Cal. 28-255 C; 42mm; Favre-Perret case; 18mm clasp; ~2,600 produced; GBFJ currently owns the finest known example (Sotheby's 2019 world record); Sigma dial examples are most prized
3700/1A — First Edition, Tropical Dial
First Edition case with naturally oxidized dial in brown/caramel tones; becoming exceptionally rare as Patek service replaces original dials; among the most coveted vintage Nautilus configurations; valued at full tropical premium
3700/1A — Retailer Signed (Gübelin · Beyer · Tiffany & Co.)
Dial signed by original retailer alongside Patek Philippe; Gübelin and Beyer (Switzerland) are the most significant; Tiffany Co. examples exist; very small production numbers; significant collector premium over unsigned examples of same configuration
3700 — White Gold (~12 known total)
Approximately 12 white gold 3700 examples known in existence including Khanjar pieces; sold on January 14, 1980 per Archives in several cases; among the rarest Nautilus metals outside platinum; significant collector premium over yellow gold examples
3700 — Platinum (~2 known)
Only two documented platinum 3700 examples; first (diamond markers) sold CHF 783,750 at Christie's 2013; second (pavé diamond dial & bezel) sold CHF 845,000 in 2015; the absolute pinnacle of Nautilus rarity by material
3700/4 — Yellow Gold, Diamond-Set Bezel & Bracelet
18k yellow gold; factory diamond-set bezel and bracelet; rare haute joaillerie configuration within the vintage 3700 family; confirmed by Extracts from the Archives citing original gem-setting at manufacture; very limited production
3700 — Double-Signed: Gübelin (Steel & Gold)
Gübelin-signed dial in both steel (3700/1A) and yellow gold (3700/1J); only five known gold Gübelin examples; steel examples also documented; Gübelin (Lucerne) is one of Patek Philippe's most historic retail partners; premium roughly doubles equivalent single-signed example
3700 — Double-Signed: Beyer (Steel)
Beyer Chronometrie (Zurich) — the world's oldest watch retailer, selling Patek Philippe since ~1842 — co-signed select 3700 dials; steel examples documented; Beyer signature appears clean at 6 o'clock alongside Patek Philippe; one of the most prestigious double-signature combinations
3700 — Double-Signed: Tiffany & Co. (Steel)
Tiffany & Co. signed select steel 3700 dials; examples documented with both standard blue dial and black dial with Roman numerals; Tiffany co-signed 3700 sold for USD 113,400 at Sotheby's December 2021; the Tiffany relationship with Patek has continued to the modern era (5711/1A-018)
3700 — Khanjar "Oman" via Asprey (Steel · Gold · White Gold)
Commissioned by H.M. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman; royal Khanjar crest on dial; retailed through Asprey London / Geneva; ~3 known in steel, ~6 known in yellow gold, ~2 known in white gold; all with closely grouped serial numbers confirming single royal batch; white gold example achieved EUR 1,300,000 at auction
3700/1J — Yellow Gold
18k yellow gold case and Gay Frères integrated bracelet; black matte dial; fewer than 1,150 yellow gold 3700 examples produced out of ~7,300 total; Cal. 28-255 C; exceptionally rare as original marketing emphasized steel as the prestige proposition
3700/11 — Second Edition, Steel
1980–1990; Cal. 28-255 C; 42mm; in-house Ateliers Réunis case replacing Favre-Perret; ~900 produced; clasp narrowed to 16mm; slimmer link profile; commands lower premium than First Edition but fully collectible Jumbo reference
3700 — "Albino" White Dial (Unique)
One-of-a-kind white dial made by Stern Frères on special request; delivered with a spare black dial; sold at Sotheby's 2015 for CHF 250,000; believed to be entirely unique; sometimes called the "Albino" by collectors
Mid-Size & Transitional — Refs. 3800 / 3900 / 4700 (1980–2006)
3800/1A — Steel, Blue Grooved Dial (early)
1981–~1995; Cal. 335 SC; 37.5mm; classic blue horizontally grooved dial with baton indexes and tritium lume; fully faithful to 3700 aesthetic at smaller scale; the most collectible 3800 configuration among purists
3800/1A — Steel, Roman Numeral Dial (late)
~1996–2006; Cal. 330 SC (replacing 335 SC); flat matte black or white dial; Roman numeral markers in design that previewed the 3710 Comet aesthetic; a significant departure from the grooved-dial tradition; collected as a design transition piece
3800/1J — Yellow Gold, Various Dials
18k yellow gold case and bracelet; available across multiple dial generations (blue grooved and Roman numeral); moderate production relative to steel version; appreciated by collectors of precious metal mid-size Nautiluses
3800 — Platinum, Dauphine Hands, Radial Indices
Special-order platinum 3800 with dauphine hands (departing from standard baton) and radial rather than applied stick indices; a wholly unique design departure; among the rarest and most distinctive Nautilus variants of any era
3900/1A — Mid-Size Quartz, Steel
1981–2006; 33mm; quartz movement; marketed as a unisex/smaller men's option; classic grooved dial; later available with blue, black, or white dial; a transitional reference between ladies and mid-size
4700 — Ladies Quartz, Yellow Gold
1980–~2000s; 27mm; quartz; the first ladies' Nautilus; yellow gold case; collectible as the original small Nautilus; part of the first wave of Nautilus size expansion in 1980
Late Transitional — Refs. 3710 / 3711 / 3712 (1998–2006)
3710/1A — "Comet" Power Reserve, Steel
1998–2006; Cal. 330 SC; 42mm Jumbo return; power reserve indicator offset at 12 o'clock; Roman numerals on flat matte black dial; the first complicated Nautilus in history; discontinued 2006 with arrival of 5711; growing collector appreciation
3711/1G — White Gold, Cal. 315 SC
2004–2006 only; white gold case and bracelet; Cal. 315 SC; black dial; produced for approximately two years before the 5711 replaced it; consistently commands secondary market premiums well above its retail price owing to very limited production window
3712/1A — Asymmetric Moonphase Pre-Anniversary, Steel
2005–2006 only; approximately one year of production; off-center small seconds and moonphase display that directly foreshadowed the 5712; the rarest steel Nautilus complication of the pre-anniversary era; significant collector interest as a transitional milestone piece
30th Anniversary Era — Ref. 5711 Family (2006–2022)
5711/1A — Steel, Blue Dial (Cal. 315 SC)
2006–~2011; Cal. 315 SC; 40mm; three-part case; brighter blue dial than 3700; slightly enlarged ears; triple-folding clasp; first generation 5711; transitioning to 324 SC mid-run; earlier examples identifiable by serial
5711/1A — Steel, Blue Dial (Cal. 324 SC)
~2011–2021; Cal. 324 SC (replacing 315 SC); otherwise visually identical; the higher-volume 5711; secondary market premium slightly above 315 SC due to movement refinement; the quintessential modern Nautilus
5711/1A-014 — Olive Green Dial
2021 only; olive green sunburst dial; Cal. 324 SC; introduced at Watches & Wonders 2021 and discontinued within the same year with the 5711's retirement; persistent secondary market premium; one of the most in-demand modern Nautiluses
5711/1A-018 — Tiffany Blue Dial
2021; limited to 170 pieces; Tiffany & Co. retail only; Tiffany blue dial; sold at auction Dec 2021 for USD 6,503,500 — world record for any stainless steel watch; a cultural milestone in modern watch collecting
5711/1R — Rose Gold, Chocolate Dial
2012–2021; 18k rose gold case and bracelet; chocolate brown dial; Cal. 324 SC; the 5711 in precious metal with a distinct dial personality; commands strong secondary premiums; discontinued with the 5711 line in 2022
5711/1P — Platinum, 40th Anniversary
2016; platinum case and bracelet; special anniversary dial; Cal. 324 SC; limited production for the Nautilus's 40th anniversary; certified rarity in the 5711 family; purchased at full precious-metal anniversary premium
5976/1G — White Gold, 40th Anniversary Chronograph
2016; white gold; flyback chronograph; produced in limited numbers for the 40th anniversary alongside the 5711/1P; among the rarest modern Nautilus complications
5800/1A — Mid-Size Steel (2006–2009)
2006–2009 only; 38.4mm; Cal. 330 SC; monobloc case with integrated sapphire back; produced for only three years before discontinuation; shorter production than almost any modern Nautilus; the "insider's pick" of the 5711 generation
Complications Family — Refs. 5712 / 5726 / 5740 / 5980 / 5990
5712/1A — Moon Phase, Power Reserve, Steel
2006–2025; Cal. 240 PS IRM C LU; 40mm; asymmetric dial with off-center small seconds, moonphase, date, and power reserve; discontinued 2025 when Patek shifted away from steel complications
5712/1R — Moon Phase, Power Reserve, Rose Gold
Rose gold case; leather strap (hybrid case/bracelet first link in gold); distinct color dial variations across production; the connoisseur's complication Nautilus in precious metal
5726/1A — Annual Calendar, Moon Phase, Steel
2010–present; Cal. 324 S QA LU 24H; 40.5mm; day, date, month, moonphase; introduced on strap 2010, bracelet 2012; the practical daily complication Nautilus
5740/1G — Perpetual Calendar, White Gold
2018–present; Cal. 240Q micro-rotor; 40mm; white gold only; perpetual calendar; ultra-slim for complexity; years-long waitlist at retail; purchased at meaningful secondary market premium
5980/1A — Flyback Chronograph, Steel
2006–2014; first in-house Patek flyback chronograph; stacked subdial at 6 o'clock; superseded by 5990; white dial 5980/1A-19 is among the rarest modern Nautilus variants; all dial variations purchased
5990/1A — Travel Time Chronograph, Steel
2014–present; Cal. CH 28-520 C FUS; 40.5mm; flyback chronograph + dual-time; most complicated Nautilus ever; Patek Philippe Seal certified; successor to 5980
5990/1R — Travel Time Chronograph, Rose Gold
Rose gold case and bracelet; all other specifications as 5990/1A; precious metal variant of the most complicated Nautilus; purchased at full market value
Current Generation & Ladies — Refs. 5811 / 7118
5811/1G — Current Jumbo, White Gold
2022–present; Cal. 26-330 S C; 41mm; white gold only; two-part case construction echoing the 3700; Patek's stated shift away from steel; bracelet with triple-folding clasp; blue dial; immediate secondary market interest
7118/1A — Ladies Steel
35.2mm; Cal. 324 S C; steel case and bracelet; blue dial; quartz-era successor to the 4700; the ladies' Nautilus in the modern idiom; multiple dial colors across production
7118/1R — Ladies Rose Gold
35.2mm; rose gold case and bracelet; multiple dial options; the precious metal ladies' Nautilus in the modern line
Gem-Set / Diamond Nautilus — Any Reference
Diamond-set bezels, fully pavé cases, and Haute Joaillerie configurations across all Nautilus references; significant gemstone replacement value; purchased with full recognition of extraordinary worth; photographs and gemstone documentation welcome
The Glenn Bradford Difference
Nearly Four Decades & Unmatched Nautilus Provenance
Glenn Bradford Fine Jewelry has been buying and selling fine jewelry and investment-grade timepieces for nearly 40 years. Our Southampton boutique has served the East End for decades, and our New York atelier extends that same standard of care to clients across the city and beyond. Over that time, we have worked with clients at every stage of the watch market — from first-time sellers navigating an unfamiliar process to seasoned collectors managing significant collections — and we bring the same attentiveness and discretion to every conversation.
The Patek Philippe Nautilus is not simply a watch we trade — it is the watch category in which we have built our deepest and most documented expertise. We currently own what is recognized as the finest known First Edition ref. 3700/1A in the world — the example that set the auction record price at Sotheby's in May 2019. No other private dealer in the world can claim this provenance with the Nautilus. That means that when you bring us a Nautilus, you are not dealing with a generalist who consults a database; you are dealing with collectors who have held, studied, and transacted some of the most important examples of this watch ever to change hands.
Whether you are selling a single watch or an entire collection, liquidating an estate, or simply curious about the value of something you have owned for years, we are glad to be the first call. Reach us by phone, email, or through the form above.
How It Works
A Simple, Discreet Process
01
Submit Your Watch
Use the form above or contact us directly. For vintage references — especially First Edition 3700/1A, tropical dial examples, retailer-signed pieces, or any complication — clear photographs of the dial, case, caseback, bracelet, and any paperwork are very helpful.
02
Receive Our Assessment
We respond within 24 hours with a preliminary offer. For significant vintage pieces — tropical 3700, First Edition Sigma dials, 3711/1G, 3712/1A, or any special-order variant — we may request additional photographs or documentation before confirming a figure.
03
Agree on Terms
Once we examine the watch in person or receive it via fully insured shipping, we confirm our final offer. No obligation to proceed at any stage.
04
Receive Payment
Payment is made promptly following final agreement and authentication. Wire transfer, check, or other arrangements available to suit your preference.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We work with clients throughout the United States and internationally. Submit your piece through the form above with clear photographs of the case, dial, caseback, and any paperwork. We will provide a preliminary assessment promptly and can arrange fully insured shipping or a private appointment at our Southampton flagship boutique — whatever is most convenient for you.
Begin the Conversation
Ready to Sell Your
Patek Philippe Nautilus?
Reach us by phone, email, or through the form above. Private consultations available in Southampton and New York.