Patek Philippe Nautilus Midsize Reference 3900/1A
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1980s
Maker / issuer
Patek PhilippeThe Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3900/1A is a midsize wristwatch manufactured during the 1980s. Constructed from stainless steel, the watch features a 32 mm diameter case and an integrated stainless steel bracelet.
The watch face is a blue gradient dial with a horizontal teak-pattern, identified by the Sigma mark. It includes luminous-coated hour markers and hands. Internally, the timepiece is powered by the Patek Philippe Calibre E23 S C, which is a quartz movement. As a midsize model, this reference offers a smaller alternative to larger counterparts in the Nautilus family while retaining the series' design elements. The auction description notes the importance of verifying the authenticity of the dial, bracelet integration, and the quartz movement during assessment.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- 1980s
- Type
- Quartz wristwatch
- Maker
- Patek Philippe
- Model
- Nautilus
- Calibre
- E23 S C
- Diameter
- 32mm
- Reference
- 3900/1A
- Case Material
- Stainless steel
- Movement Type
- Quartz
- Maker / attribution
- Patek Philippe
Design
- Visible features
- • Integrated stainless steel bracelet with center polished links • Blue dial with horizontal embossed pattern • Porthole-shaped octagonal bezel with rounded corners • Date aperture at the 3 o'clock position
- Design and Construction
- The Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3900/1A features a 32 mm diameter stainless steel case, designed with the porthole-inspired architecture associated with the Nautilus line. The case is matched with an integrated stainless steel bracelet that follows the established design language of the model family, balancing both sport and formal characteristics. The dial is rendered in a blue gradient with an embossed horizontal teak-pattern. It features luminous-coated hour markers and hands to facilitate legibility. The dial is marked with the Sigma symbol, indicating the use of gold or precious material components, and includes a date window positioned at the 3 o'clock mark.
- Movement and Functionality
- The watch is powered by the Patek Philippe Calibre E23 S C. This is a quartz movement designed for this specific reference, intended to provide the reliability and accuracy for daily wear. The use of this quartz engine aligns with the technical specifications of the midsize Nautilus variants produced during this period. The inclusion of the E23 S C movement allows for a thinner profile within the 32 mm case, maintaining the proportions expected of a midsize luxury sports watch. Collectors are advised to confirm the condition of this specific movement to ensure the continued functionality and overall value of the timepiece.
- Authenticity and Verification
- Given the rarity and significance of the Nautilus collection, the auction description emphasizes the necessity of verifying the integrity of the watch. Specifically, collectors are encouraged to inspect the originality of the Sigma-marked dial, the condition of the integrated stainless steel bracelet, and the operational status of the quartz calibre. These checks are fundamental when assessing the provenance and market value of the reference 3900/1A. The source notes that such assessments provide assurance regarding the authenticity of the watch and its individual components.
Identification
- Reference
- 3900/1A
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The source attributes the watch to the 1980s without specifying a precise year.
- Research required: The source notes that independent verification of the movement and component authenticity is recommended.