Patek Philippe Nautilus

The Nautilus is without question one of the great horological icons of the 1970s, and one of the most in-demand timepiece models on the planet. Collectors and prospectors alike are clamoring to get their hands on Genta's second great luxury sports watch, and with the recent news of the discontinuation of the flagship reference 5711 in steel, this dramatic rise in popularity shows no signs of slowing down.  This midsize Nautilus, a Reference 3800/001, embodies all of the porthole-inspired character of its larger siblings. Dating from the early 1990s, it’s presented in an elegant 37mm steel and 18K yellow gold case with matching integrated bracelet, Patek Philippe Calibre 335 SC automatic movement, and a classic blue tapestry dial with date window at 3 o’clock. But that’s not all: This is a coveted “sigma” dial, indicating the presence of gold, whose tritium lume has taken on a creamy patina so beloved by collectors.  Paired with its signature integrated two-tone bracelet and a signed crown, the watch comes with its red leather wallet with global services booklet, certificate of origin and services paper dated to 2012.  Of course, the Nautilus — in any of its variations — is a very special thing. But there's something about a two-tone blue dial that just does it for us.