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Lot #2142

Patek Phillipe Golden Ellipse 3738/122J 18k YG Integrated Bracelet

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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. Launched in 1978 and offered in multiple dial colors, materials and configurations, the ref. 3738 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 its blue “Sigma” dial, the ref. 3738 that we have here features only yellow gold in its hands and baton hour markers, making it a collectable timepiece for its tarnish and rust-resistant qualities. Fitted with one of the thinnest automatic movements on the market at the time, the cal. 240, the ref. 3738 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 1970s. Alongside its wearable proportions, the example we have here also sits on a wonderfully ornate 18kt yellow gold bracelet that only compounds upon its luxurious aesthetic and sets it apart as a truly luxurious timepiece.

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Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$10,000 – $15,000

The Details

Brand

Patek Philippe

Dimensions

36mm x 31mm

Model

Golden Ellipse

Movement

Automatic cal. 240

Reference

3738/122J

Bracelet

18kt yellow gold bracelet

Year

Circa 1980s

Condition

Very good

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch, service pouch and service credentials

Dial Color

Blue

THE DIAL

Boasting a rich blue sigma dial with only 18kt yellow gold dial furniture, this Golden Ellipse features an understated dial that interestingly contrasts its elaborate bracelet.

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.

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. There are visible scratches and marks on the bezel and around the case and bracelet. Caseback hallmarks are still crisp and visible. Dial is in near-mint condition and appears visually flawless. The bracelet has 15 links total and can fit a 6.25" wrist. It will fit a small sized wrist and cannot easily be re-sized.

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.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder