Patek Philippe 3712 Review – Rarest Nautilus Worth Owning?

Introduction

Before the 5711 took over the world, there was the Patek Philippe Nautilus 3712/1A — a reference so short-lived and mysterious, many collectors don’t even know it exists.

Produced for just over a year (2005–2006), the 3712 represents a transitional grail — a unique piece of Nautilus history that combines old-school charm with modern-day collector frenzy.

In this guide, we’ll break down the history, features, rarity, pricing, and investment appeal of the 3712 — and why it might just be the best-kept secret in the Nautilus world.

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1. A Very Short Production Run

The Patek Philippe 3712/1A debuted in 2005 and was discontinued shortly after to make way for the 5712/1A, part of the 30th-anniversary revamp of the Nautilus line.

Key details:

• Production lasted barely 12–14 months

• Estimated ~1,200 pieces produced

• One of the last Nautilus models with the slimmer “Jumbo” case profile

• Extremely low public awareness until recent years

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2. Complication Stack: Compact but Complete

Unlike most sport watches, the 3712 packed multiple complications:

• Power Reserve (10 o’clock)

• Moonphase + Date (7 o’clock)

• Small Seconds (4 o’clock)

It runs on the ultra-thin Caliber 240 PS IRM C LU, complete with a micro-rotor and Geneva Seal finishing — combining luxury finishing with iconic sports watch style.

3. Dial Design – Quirky, Asymmetrical, Iconic

The dial of the 3712 is what sets it apart from nearly every other Nautilus — and every other watch.

 Unique layout:

• Off-center complications

• Warm blue-black gradient

• Applied gold indices

• Vintage-style lume (pre-Super-LumiNova)

3-Dot vs 4-Dot Dial Variation

One of the smallest — and most collectible — details of the 3712 is the dot count on the power reserve scale.

At the end of the power reserve indicator, you’ll find either:

• 3 dots – found on earlier production pieces

• 4 dots – seen on later production, just before the 5712 rollout

Collectors prize the 3-dot dial for its early-batch production and slightly greater rarity. While Patek has never officially explained the change, some speculate it was a visual or printing refinement leading up to the 5712’s design release.

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4. Market Value & Collector Demand (2025 Update)

The 3712 has seen tremendous value growth as collectors discover how rare and charming it is.

Factors driving this:

• Ultra-low production

• Quirky, artistic layout

• Caliber 240 with micro-rotor

• It’s the only Nautilus reference with this exact dial configuration

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5. 3712 vs 5712: Subtle but Serious Differences

While the 5712/1A followed the 3712 closely, collectors view them very differently:

The 5712 is a modern icon, but the 3712 is a true collector’s reference.

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6. Final Verdict: Why the 3712 Belongs in Your Vault

The 3712 is for connoisseurs who appreciate:

• Low-production runs

• Under-the-radar icons

• Asymmetry and vintage aesthetics

• And watches that punch above their hype level

If the 5711 is the face of the Nautilus, the 3712 is its soul.

Want to track down a Patek Philippe 3712 in excellent condition?
Contact ETP Watches – we specialize in sourcing ultra-rare references for discerning collectors worldwide.