Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800

The Nautilus Ref. 3800/1A is a sports watch by Patek Philippe, introduced in 1980 and replaced in 2006 with the Nautilus 5800.

This is the mid-sized “La Classique” Nautilus model from the first generation of the Nautilus family.

Like the rest of the Patek Philippe Nautilus family, Ref. 3800/1A has the well-known integrated and water-tight “porthole” case penned by Gérald Genta.

On its introduction in 1976, many complained that the original Nautilus was too large. Therefore, Patek expanded the line in 1980 with this watch, at 37.5 mm.

While the original Nautilus used a Jaeger-LeCoultre ebauche movement, Cal. 28-255 C, this Ref. 3800 received its own in-house movement. The new Cal. 335 SC has been criticized for not bearing the Geneva Seal, lacking a Gyromax balance, and for its short power reserve, owing to the new 28,800 A/h rate. The movement was replaced in 1992 with the improved Cal. 330 SC, with an updated Cal. 330 used after 1997.

Patek Philippe refreshed the entire Nautilus line in 2006, replacing this Ref. 3800 with the new Ref. 5800.

• History of the Patek Philippe Nautilus