Patek Philippe's design language changed markedly during the late 1960s and 1970s, embracing increasingly minimalist cases, vivid blue dials and highly integrated precious-metal bracelets. The Golden Ellipse, introduced in 1968, became the best-known expression of this new aesthetic, but its influence extended to a broader family of watches that shared many of the same visual codes. The ref. 4114 is an intriguing example, as despite frequently being described as an Ellipse, its perfectly round case means it does not possess the elliptical proportions that technically define the collection.

Dating to 1974, this ref. 4114/1J nevertheless captures much of the character associated with Patek Philippe's Ellipse-era design. Its compact 25mm round case is fashioned from 18K yellow gold and flows directly into a beautifully textured integrated gold mesh bracelet. The blue soleil-finished Sigma dial provides the focal point, punctuated only by slender applied gold baton hour markers and matching hands. Inside is the manually wound calibre 175, whose ultra-thin construction allowed Patek Philippe to maintain the watch's exceptionally restrained profile. Whether considered an Ellipse relative or simply an elegant 1970s Patek Philippe dress watch, the ref. 4114/1J is a particularly pure expression of the manufacture's design during the period.