The history of this Patek Philippe Nautilus
In 1976, Patek Philippe unveiled the Nautilus, designed by Gérald Genta and inspired by the portholes of transatlantic ocean liners. The two side ‘ears’ of the case echo the hinges that secure these portholes, whilst the octagonal bezel with its rounded corners forms their frame. The first Nautilus for women, the 4700, followed in 1980. Unveiled at Baselworld in 2015, the Nautilus Ladies’ Automatic, reference 7118/1A-001, incorporates these design elements in a 35.2 mm case and replaces the horizontal ribs of the men’s model with an embossed wave pattern, which has become the signature feature of the ladies’ Nautilus. This unadorned steel version retains the original design, with no diamonds on the bezel.
Case, movement and strap of this Nautilus
The steel case measures 35.2 mm from 10 o’clock to 4 o’clock and is 8.62 mm thick. The top of the bezel and the case middle are satin-finished, the sides are polished, and the sapphire crystal caseback reveals the calibre 324 S C. This self-winding movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, features 29 jewels and offers up to 45 hours of power reserve. Its central oscillating weight in 21-carat gold and its bridges, adorned with Côtes de Genève, bear the Patek Philippe Hallmark. The opaline blue dial with a wave motif features a ‘12’ and applied hour markers in white gold with a luminescent coating, matching alpha-style hands, a central seconds hand and a date window at 6 o’clock. The integrated steel bracelet alternates between satin-finished and polished links, culminating in the signature Nautilus folding clasp. At 8.62 mm thick, the watch slips effortlessly under a cuff.
Why this Patek Philippe watch
This Nautilus combines the silhouette designed in 1976 with a 35.2 mm case size tailored for the female wrist, crafted from steel and without gem-setting, making it easy to wear every day. It retains the calibre 324 S C, whilst the current version in the Maison’s catalogue is fitted with the calibre 26-330 S C. Its original invoice, issued by the Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva, documents its purchase in April 2016. Its case has never been polished. It therefore retains its edges and the transitions between satin-finished and polished surfaces exactly as they were when it left the manufacture.
Contents and condition
The watch is supplied in its lacquered wooden Patek Philippe case, with its cardboard inner box, its Patek Philippe cardboard bag, its original invoice dated April 2016 and 3 spare links with their pins. It shows signs of wear consistent with a watch that has been worn since 2016. The bezel, case, lugs, bracelet and clasp show visible scratches, whilst the crystal, dial and hands remain in good condition. For those who prefer a fresher appearance, a professional polish can be carried out prior to sale, upon request.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Condition: Visible signs of wear. Appearance consistent with the item’s history and age. Polishing available on request.