Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800 - Stainless Steel Blue Sigma Dial
The Perfect Mid-Size Proportions
The reference 3800 is a pivotal watch in the Nautilus story, introduced in 1981 to offer Gérald Genta's iconic design in a more versatile, mid-size format. At 37.5mm, it was a direct response to a market that desired the porthole-inspired case and integrated bracelet in proportions that were more universal than the original "Jumbo." This reference retained all the essential design cues while introducing a central seconds hand, creating a balanced and highly wearable version of one of watchmaking's most important designs.
The Importance Of The Sigma
This example is distinguished by its blue "Sigma" dial. The small Greek letter sigma flanking the "Swiss" text at six o'clock indicates that the hour markers are crafted from solid gold. This was a standard used by a select group of top Swiss watchmakers to denote the use of precious metals on the dial itself, adding a subtle but significant layer of quality and refinement. For collectors, the Sigma dial represents a specific era of manufacturing and is a key detail that separates these pieces from later production.
A Flawless And Original Example
This watch presents in like-new condition. The case retains its factory-defined lines, and the distinct brushed finish of the bezel is sharp and clean. The integrated steel bracelet is tight, showing none of the stretch common in watches of this era. Its blue Sigma dial is flawless, with the horizontal embossing crisp and the color deep and consistent. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Thinking Collector's Nautilus
This is the Nautilus for someone who values the purity of the original design but prefers a more classic and understated presence on the wrist. The 3800 has seen a recent surge in collector interest as tastes shift back toward more wearable case sizes. It offers the complete Genta experience, from the shape of the case to the flow of the bracelet, in a package that is arguably more comfortable and versatile than any other reference in the Nautilus family.
Reference: 3800
Model: Nautilus
Year: 1996
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 37.5mm
Bezel: Stainless Steel
Bracelet: Stainless Steel
Dial: Blue Sigma Dial
Metal: Stainless Steel
SKU: 1718
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
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Shipping
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The collector experience
Trusted by thousands of collectors across the nation, read what they have to say.
Andrew Brill
US
cannot recommend Danny’s Vintage Watches highly enough. I recently went through the process of selling my father’s Rolex, and the team made what could have been a stressful experience incredibly smooth and fair. I ended up trading for three absolute icons: two Cartier Tanks and a vintage Omega Speedmaster. The attention to detail on these pieces was impressive the Speedmaster was in beautiful condition, and the Cartier had been expertly re-plated and polished, looking practically new. What really sets Danny’s apart, though, is the after-care. When I unfortunately busted the crystal on one of the Cartier's eight months later, they sorted the repair quickly and for a very reasonable price. They even went the extra mile by referring me to a trusted jeweler for a ring resizing, where I’m certain their relationship helped me get a better deal. Their shop is filled with incredible finds. If you are a serious enthusiast or just looking for a fair, honest dealer, this is the place. I’ll definitely be back for my next "grail" watch!
Joel Brodfuehrer
Wonderful experience. Danny gave me personalized recommendations and service when purchasing vintage watches. He was patient with me and very understanding, taking into consideration my requests. I will absolutely be buying more watches from Danny! Thanks for a great transaction.
Y
JP
•30 October 2025The watch arrived safely and exactly as described. It's a beautiful piece, in excellent condition, and clearly well cared for. Communication was clear and courteous throughout, and the shipping was prompt and secure. I'm very pleased with this purchase and would happily buy from this seller again. Thank you very much!
Carl F.
US
•28 October 2025Excellent inventory and high quality communication. I found a rare vintage Rolex I had been seeking for a while and found Danny's a pleasure to do business with.
Erik Goldfarb
US
Nothing but great things to say about my experience at Danny’s Vintage. Danny and David are experts and truly find joy in finding unique vintage watches. They’re knowledgeable about this history of the watches and will help you find the right piece for you. Overall, a great experience and I’ll be back.
Aria pidge
US
Absolutely unreal experience. Found them from Facebook. Figured I’d browse the site. Fell in love with a patek, texted them, and they (specifically David) were so amazing and easy to chat with about options and inventory, process etc. Came in to pick up the watch - man, as you probably know - you cannot understate how great their selection is. That’s really one of the best parts as well. The service is great; they treat their clients great, prices are very good - but the curation is another huge stand out part. Anyway - these fellas were so great when we came in, that my wife was determined that we buy a watch for her, - you know just to help the business. Not for her, she insists, but because of how great the guys at the shop were. And I agreed so I obliged. :P It’s honestly a 10/10 shop. As we speak they are reworking both our watches to fit our bracelet and I’ll add photos when I pick up the watches. Heck, 11/10. They’re that good. Go there, you will not regret it! But it might be very hard not to leave with something
Jacob V.
US
•24 August 2025The vintage Rolex I purchased is a high quality watch. The customer service was superb. I highly recommend the seller.
Filipp Kirik
US
Danny and David are the best in the vintage watch business. They care about their client, They are passionate about the quality of watches that they sell. I’m so happy that I got my watch from them and I will never go anywhere else again.
Joseph H.
CA
•27 May 20255 Stars. Buy the dealer not the watch. Have complete faith in Danny's VW. They care about reputation and service. You can't go wrong with them. Highly recommend.
Olivia Garbin
US
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. They were so kind and actually cared what I bought as a present. We've already purchased from them again and will do more in the future. Incredible selection of pristine watches