Introduction
Released in 1970, two years after the introduction of the Ellipse collection to Patek's roster, the Golden Ellipse collection featured a larger and more prominent case design that coincided with the evolution of style occurring at the time as watches slowly began to grow out of the dainty cases they had been kept within. Produced from 1976 until 2000, the ref. 3730 is one of the largest and rarest Golden Ellipse variants, with fewer than 10 examples of this reference known to the market. Boasting a stepped 18kt yellow gold case that measures 38mm x 31mm, the ref. 3730 is much larger than other Golden Ellipse variants which simultaneously held back its popularity while it was in production, but also spurred on its modern popularity given its commanding wrist presence. Powered by the manual-wind cal. 215 movement and sporting a black onyx stone dial, the ref. 3730 wears wonderfully on the wrist given its slim profile and distinctively dark dial.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch only
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
38mm x 31mm
Model
Golden Ellipse
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 215
Reference
3730
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black onyx
THE DIAL
Boasting an onyx stone dial, this ref. 3730's massive dark black display is decorated only with Patek's branding at 12 o'clock and its sharp dauphine hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring a 38mm x 31mm 18kt yellow gold case, the ref. 3730's construction is notable for its very large size and unique stepped design.
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
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows surface scratches and some small nicks to the bezel. The case back retains crisp hallmarks. The onyx hard stone dial has a no hairlines or fissures, but there are a couple areas of slight discoloration, caused from delamination between the hard stone and the dial plate. They are hard to photograph but can be seen at an angle. Photos showing this are in the image carousel. There are tiny specs visible in the images that are on debris trapped under the crystal, and are not marks on the dial. Hands have some light scratches visible primarily near the center post. It is fitted with a Camille Fournet crocodile strap and a yellow gold Patek Philippe Ellipse buckle showing light surface marks.
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
An incredibly rare variant of the Golden Ellipse, the ref. 3730's large construction and onyx stone dial combine to create a watch unlike anything else from the collection.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
