Introduction
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 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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
27mm x 32mm
Model
Golden Ellipse
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 23-300
Reference
3548
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1970s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt white gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Boasting a blue sigma dial with 18kt white gold applied indices and hands, this ref. 3548's dial is an exercise in restraint and understated design. Partially tropicalized so as to darken its blue color and appear purple under certain lighting conditions, this example's dial is full of personality and style.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Thanks to its oval shape and lack of traditional lugs, the Ellipse wears comfortably as its strap articulates from behind the case and wraps nicely around the wrist.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The white gold case is in excellent condition, with some light scratches commensurate with a watch of this vintage. The no-lume blue Sigma dial has a couple of marks and has developed a rich purple hue over time. The white gold hour markers and hands are very clean. The watch is fitted with a black Patek Philippe strap that has an Ellipse white gold buckle in excellent condition.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
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.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
