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 1982 until the early 1990s and offered in multiple dial colors, materials and configurations, the ref. 3788 was, and still is, a naturally varied timepiece that speaks to just as wide a diaspora of collectors today as it did back in the day. Offered with a champagne dial, the ref. 3788 that we have here features only 18kt yellow gold in its hands and baton hour markers, which match the 18kt yellow gold case that they find themselves within. Fitted with a quartz cal. E23C movement, the ref. 3788 boasts a wonderfully thin and easily wearable profile to compound upon its classy aesthetic and operate as a splendid dress watch today, just as it did in the 1980s.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch only
Est. value range
$7,000 – $9,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
32mm x 26.5mm
Model
Golden Ellipse
Movement
Quartz cal. E23C
Reference
3788
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Champagne

THE DIAL
Boasting a gorgeous champagne dial with only 18kt yellow gold dial furniture, this Golden Ellipse features an understated dial that feeds into the collection's ethos as a fine dress watch.

THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring case proportions inspired by the ancient Greek “golden ratio" of 1:1.6181, the Golden Ellipse is a beautifully balanced timepiece that sits on the wrist with a delightful poise and elegance.

THE PROFILE
Powered by a quartz movement, in keeping with the times, the ref. 3788's 18kt yellow gold case boasts a thin profile that wears close to the wrist.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows surface scratches and marks, with some tarnishing visible to the sides. The case back retains well-defined hallmarks and stamps. The Sigma dial has a couple of small surface marks and a small chip near the edge between seven and eight o’clock. The hands remain very clean. It is fitted with a black lizard strap and a gold-coloured pin buckle stamped Hong Kong.
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
Emphasising Patek's ability to create an elegant timepiece without the use of emphatic and over-zealous design language, the Golden Ellipse is a carefully created timepiece that elegantly achieves its mission of communicating a sense of true watchmaking luxury.












