The reference 3800 was in production from 1981 until 2006 and available in different versions. It was a mid-size version of the Nautilus reference 3700 and carried the same design aesthetics. It was presented in a smaller size case (37.5 mm. as opposed to 42 mm.) and the dial featured a centre seconds hand made possible by the introduction of the Patek Philippe Cal. 335 SC.

While early models were fitted with the Cal. 335 SC (without the quick set date), a version with the quick set date was introduced in 1987. The third generation was Ref. 3700 was presented with the Cal. 330 134. Between 1997 and 2006, the Ref. 3700 models produced were powered by the Cal. 330 194.

The double-signed dial carries the rare Gübelin legend, indicating that it was originally retailed by renowned Swiss retailer. A Gübelin signature is extremely rare to find on any Nautilus model and consequently these watches are amongst the most desirable and sought after pieces of the range.