Dial: black-blueCalibre: cal. 240 PS automatic, 29 jewelsMovement number: 3’170’259Case: stainless steel, sapphire crystal display backCase number:  4’340’743Closure: stainless steel Patek Philippe bracelet and double folding claspSize: 42.5 mm, bracelet circumference approx. 170 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe presentation case and Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on October 31st, 2005

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The date, moon phases and power reserve indicator are working properly. The watch is in close to like new condition. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The Nautilus reference 3712 was introduced in 2005 and had a very short production run. It is believed to have been made only for about eight months and therefore the overall production output is rather low too with an estimate of 1'700 pieces having been sold. At the time of production it was the most complicated Nautilus version as it included, in addition to the date which previous models had already, moon phases, a power-reserve indication and subsidiary seconds. The way those indications and apertures are placed on the dial is particular, and seems slightly off at first glance, giving the watch a special touch. 

It was replaced already in 2006 by the similar reference 5712, which was introduced to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Nautilus model. The two models can be distinguished by a subtle difference to the dial, namely the very small applied index at 7 o'clock which can be found on the 3712 but not on the 5712.