Launched in 1968 as the very first model within Patek Philippe's Golden Ellipse collection, the ref. 3548 marked a significant shift for Patek as they embraced the constantly changing world that was the 1960's. With the dawn quartz technology on its way, Patek sought a watch that was both unisex in its design and also immediately 'Patek' in its aesthetic. With that design brief, Patek debuted the Golden Ellipse to immediate success as a result of its novel and forward-thinking design and luxurious construction. Made from 18k yellow gold and powered by a manual-wind movement, the ref. 3548 celebrated classical watchmaking's techniques while also retaining a forward-thinking design in the form of its thin oval-shaped case, understated dials, lug-less design, and elegant unisex proportions. Following the success of the ref. 3548, Patek followed with several other Golden Ellipse variants that proved to be just as successful, leading to the collection remaining within Patek's catalog to this day.

With its long history within Patek's catalog standing as a testament to just how well-received it has been over the decades, the Ellipse remains an icon amongst dress watches, thanks to its signature oval shape, and elegant dials.