Introduction
Launched in 1968, then Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse collection 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 an automatic cal. 28-255SC movement, the ref. 3604 that we have here showcases the whacky and wonderful designs that brands created in the 1970s thanks to its hulking 37mm rounded rectangular construction which has earned it its “TV-Screen” nickname. Offered on a leather strap and featuring a blue co-signed by Beyer dial, this example is equally extravagant as it is refined. Discontinued in 1980 after being produced for a few years, the ref. 3604 is one of several Golden Ellipse variants that have proven to become a true cult-classic in recent years as collectors begin to shine a light on the collection as whole.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
37mm
Model
Golden Circle 'TV' Ellipse
Movement
Automatic cal. 28-255C
Reference
3604
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1970s
Condition
Very Good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue
THE DIAL
Boasting a blue co-signed dial with a golden patina developing around its hour markers, this ref. 3604's display is a unique combination of elements that gets collectors excited with its unusual patina and exclusivity arising from its Beyer signature, which reveals that Beyer originally sold the watch to one of their VIPs.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting a rounded rectangular 37mm x 37mm construction, the ref. 3604's 18kt yellow gold case was a behemoth in the 1970s, and today it is perfectly suited to our modern preferences for larger watches.
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 very good overall condition. Case shows moderate surface wear, with visible dings and marks along the bezel / midcase. There is a more prominent ding visible on the back of the case near the lower right side as seen in the images. Hallmark on the 9 o'clock side of the case is worn but visible. The original blue galvanic dial is in very good condition. There is a creeping oxidation visible on the dial surface emanating from the applied indexes and in some areas of the edge. Watch comes with original 18k gold tang buckle.
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
A beloved favorite for Ellipse and Golden Circle collectors, the ref. 3604 is a classic that is uniquely 1970s in flavor. An automatic watch that fits large on the wrist with an exclusive co-signed blue dial, this ref. 3604 has just about everything a vintage Patek collector could want in one watch.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
