1970s Patek Philippe Ellipse Ref. 3548J In 18k Yellow Gold
Why This Watch Matters It's blue. It's gold. It's bright and bold. This Patek Philippe Ellipse is a glamorous hidden gem with plenty of '70s charm. The Full Story It's not a Nautilus. Or an Aquanaut. Or even a Calatrava. It has no extra complications. But the Ellipse still stands out within Patek Philippe's historic catalog. How? It's all about the smooth, slim egg-shaped case profile that's crafted out of precious metal and equals a whole different level of luxury and sophistication in watchmaking. The Ellipse represented a new stylish frontier for Patek Philippe when it was introduced in the late 1960s. And over 50 years later, the one-of-a-kind ovoid dress watch has remained a symbol of distinctive yet discreet luxury. The ref. 3548 we have here dates to the first generation of Ellipse production. It doubles up on the gold, with both an 18k yellow gold case and a beautiful dial crafted out of solid gold that has received a chemical treatment to result in a dial with a unique, deep blue hue. The applied rectangular hour markers on the dial are also made from solid gold, looking almost like solid gold bars that have been suddenly dropped on the dial. It gives off a highly memorable impression, something that's only made better by the presence of the ultra-thin manual-wind Patek Philippe caliber 23-300 inside. It's an absolute dream to wind up. The Ellipse's oval shape is well-known for wearing larger than its petite 32mm × 27mm × 6.5mm dimensions might indicate, and the unique three-piece case of this Ellipse wears rather solid on the wrist. The hidden hooded-style lugs and sloping bezel give the watch a bit of unexpected personality, causing it to appear to almost float on top of the wrist. The Ellipse's unique case, of course, is inspired by the so-called Golden Ratio, an ancient formula developed by Greek mathematicians that is believed to be inherently attractive to all who come across it. Who are we to argue? The Ellipse remains in Patek Philippe's catalog to this day, and its current appearance is remarkably similar to the original design that is epitomized by watches like this ref. 3548. Yes, you could consider it to be the Calatrava's flashier and younger brother – but we think the Ellipse is mature enough to now stand entirely on its own. The Fine Print Maker: Patek Philippe Model: Ellipse Reference: 3548J Year: Circa 1970s Case No: 2712661 Movement No: 1158378 Material: 18k yellow gold Dimensions: 32mm × 27mm diameter; 6.5mm/7mm thick Crystal: Sapphire Lume: N/A Caliber: Patek Philippe, manual-wound, cal. 23-300 Bracelet/Strap: Black lizard strap Lug Width: N/A Box/Papers: N/A What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Classic, slim Ellipse case profile - Beautiful blue dial with sunburst finish - Hidden lugs Things To Know: - Scratches on bezel - Patina on caseband and caseback This Patek Philippe Ellipse is in overall very good vintage condition. The case has previously been lightly polished; it features brushing and polishing in the appropriate areas. There are some light scratches visible on the bezel; patina has developed on the caseback and caseband. The caseback shows a few marks and scratches, likely from a watchmaker opening the watch up to check the movement. The gold hallmark is noticeable on the caseband near the five o'clock lug. The sections of the caseback near each lug shows noticeable patina. The dial and hands are in great condition and have developed a light patina overall. The dial is well-preserved with the sunburst finish remarkably crisp. The hour markers show light wear. There is a small imperfection visible on the dial near the eight o'clock hour marker. The dial, crown, case, and movement are all signed by Patek Philippe. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist. *NOTE: Please be aware that this watch comes with a lizard leather strap. If the watch is shipped to any international destination, we will not be able to send the lizard strap with it due to laws regarding the sale and shipment of exotic leather goods.
