Patek Philippe Nautilus

While the Nautilus is without question one of the great horological icons of the 1970s, it has in recent years once again become one of the most in-demand timepieces on the planet. Collectors and prospectors alike are clamoring to get their hands on Genta's second great luxury sports watch, and with the still-recent news of the discontinuation of their current-collection steel model — the legendary Reference 5711 — this dramatic rise shows no signs of slowing down. This midsize Nautilus, a Reference 3800/1A-001, embodies all of the porthole-inspired character of its larger siblings. Dating to the 2000s, it features an elegant 37mm steel case with a matching integrated bracelet; the Patek Philippe Calibre 335SC automatic movement; a luminous, deep black lacquer dial with applied Roman indices; and a matching feuille handset. The Nautilus in any of its variations is a very special thing. This midsize version, however — with its unique dial configuration and smaller case — is all the more so.