Brad Pitt was recently spotted enjoying sushi in Tokyo, Japan, casually dressed yet unmistakably elegant with a vintage Patek Philippe Nautilus 3700 “Jumbo” in stainless steel on his wrist. For watch enthusiasts, it was a moment that combined Hollywood glamour with horological excellence. The watch, featuring a rare tropical dial that has aged to a rich bronze hue, is one of the most coveted vintage Patek models in existence and a quiet statement of timeless taste.
The Nautilus 3700 was first introduced in 1976 and marked Patek Philippe’s entry into the luxury sports watch segment. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, the Nautilus took inspiration from a ship’s porthole, resulting in its distinctive rounded octagonal bezel. The reference 3700 was the inaugural model in the Nautilus family and was nicknamed the Jumbo due to its relatively large 42mm case size, which was considered oversized at the time.
Crafted in stainless steel with a slim profile and an integrated bracelet, the 3700 combined robustness with elegance. It was powered by the ultra-thin automatic caliber 28-255 C, derived from the Jaeger-LeCoultre base movement, and had no seconds hand or date magnifier, keeping the dial clean and symmetrical. The tropical dial on Pitt’s watch adds another layer of rarity. This phenomenon occurs when the original black or blue dial undergoes natural aging, developing a warm brown or bronze patina that is entirely unique to each piece.
Today, a well-preserved Nautilus 3700 with a tropical dial can command prices of around $300,000 or more, depending on condition and provenance. Far from being a flashy accessory, it reflects a deeper appreciation for design, history, and craftsmanship.
Brad Pitt’s taste in watches has become a subtle highlight of the F1 press tour. In addition to the Nautilus, he has also been seen wearing a Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526, another vintage masterpiece known for its enamel dial and status as Patek’s first automatic wristwatch. These choices show that Pitt is not just a celebrity with access, but someone with a genuine collector’s sensibility.
The F1 movie itself, which Pitt headlines and co-produces, has already garnered significant buzz. Filmed with real F1 teams and drivers and supported by high-octane racing sequences, the film has impressed critics and fans alike for its authenticity and adrenaline-fueled storytelling. With stylish watches and a promising film, Brad Pitt continues to steal the spotlight in more ways than one.
