Review of the Patek Philippe Blue Nautilus
The Patek Philippe Nautilus 3900/1A Blue is a smaller and elegant variant of the iconic Nautilus, designed with the brand’s timeless flair and high-quality craftsmanship. Introduced originally in the 1980s, the 3900 has remained a popular choice for those who appreciate a compact, unisex version of the larger models. Here's a detailed review of the 2018 Patek Philippe Nautilus 3900/1A 33mm Blue model:
Design and Case
The Patek Philippe Nautilus 3900 stands out for its classic 1976 Gérald Genta-inspired Nautilus design, characterised by the unique rounded octagonal bezel and horizontally embossed dial. At 33mm in diameter, the 3900 is notably smaller than the flagship 5711, making it suitable for both men and women or anyone preferring a less bulky wrist presence.
The stainless steel case is highly polished, exhibiting the subtle interplay between brushed and polished surfaces, which enhances the overall refinement. Despite its smaller size, the watch doesn’t feel undersized due to its well-proportioned design.
Dial and Hands
One of the standout features of the 3900 is its blue dial, which showcases the signature horizontal lines typical of the Nautilus range. The deep blue color shifts beautifully under various lighting conditions, giving the watch a dynamic aesthetic. The simplicity of the dial is maintained with applied white gold hour markers that are coated with luminescent material, allowing for good readability even in low light.
The hands are also made of white gold with luminescent coating, maintaining Patek Philippe's signature elegance and functionality. The date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, blending well into the dial without disrupting the overall design.
Bracelet and Clasp
The integrated stainless steel bracelet is a signature of the Nautilus line, offering both comfort and style. The bracelet features a mix of brushed and polished finishes, adding to the visual appeal. The fold-over clasp is solid and secure, adding to the watch’s durability while ensuring a snug fit on the wrist.
One thing to note is the bracelet's versatility. While the overall size may suggest a more casual appeal, the elegance of the bracelet makes the 3900 suitable for both formal and casual settings.
Movement
The Patek Philippe 3900 is powered by the Caliber E23-250 quartz movement, which might surprise those expecting a mechanical caliber from Patek Philippe. However, it is essential to remember that Patek's quartz movements are still regarded as high-end due to their precision and reliability. The brand’s decision to incorporate a quartz movement in a luxury watch of this caliber reflects a combination of precision and convenience, catering to individuals who appreciate the no-fuss reliability of quartz.
Though the quartz movement may lack the romance of a mechanical one, the trade-off is a high level of accuracy with minimal maintenance requirements. For daily wearers, this is a strong advantage, as it combines the timeless aesthetics of the Nautilus with the practicality of quartz.
Size and Wearability
At 33mm, the 3900 is a smaller-sized watch, which gives it a more refined and discreet look compared to its larger counterparts. The thickness is well balanced, ensuring the watch doesn’t feel chunky, even on smaller wrists. The size is ideal for those who prefer a more understated wristwatch, and it easily slips under shirt cuffs for formal occasions.
Despite its size, the watch retains the sporty yet elegant DNA of the Nautilus, making it versatile enough for both professional and casual settings. The size may be too small for some, particularly those accustomed to larger, contemporary sports watches. However, for those with a preference for classic proportions, it is an ideal choice.
Market and Collectability
The Patek Philippe Nautilus 3900 has developed a strong following among collectors, especially as the larger Nautilus models have soared in popularity and price. The smaller size offers a more attainable and often overlooked entry point into the Nautilus range, with the same iconic design. The quartz movement, while a deviation from the typical mechanical focus of Patek Philippe, does not detract from its value in the secondary market, where demand for any Nautilus remains robust.
In the 2018 version, the model maintained its classic features while keeping the timeless appeal of the original 3900.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Iconic Nautilus design in a compact, wearable size.
- High-quality quartz movement offering precision and low maintenance.
- Stainless steel construction, versatile for both casual and formal wear.
- Comfortable integrated bracelet with a secure fold-over clasp.
- Timeless and collectible design with strong secondary market demand.
Cons:
- Quartz movement may not appeal to mechanical purists.
- Smaller 33mm case might feel undersized for those preferring larger sports watches.
- Price point remains high for a quartz watch, though typical for a Patek Philippe.
Conclusion
The Patek Philippe Nautilus 3900 Blue (2018) represents a beautifully crafted and practical iteration of the iconic Nautilus design. While the 33mm size and quartz movement might not suit all tastes, the watch offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of horological history in a more accessible, versatile package. Its appeal lies in its elegant proportions, iconic design, and the prestigious Patek Philippe branding—making it an excellent choice for collectors and wearers alike who appreciate classic luxury with a modern twist.
If you are interested in purchasing this exact timepiece we have one in stock today priced at £34,000.00