Introduction
Launched in 1968, the Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse represented a striking departure from the manufacture’s more traditional round dress watches. Its distinctive case was neither conventionally round nor rectangular, instead adopting an elongated oval form whose proportions were inspired by the golden ratio. Combined with an exceptionally restrained two-hand display and concealed strap attachments, the result became one of Patek Philippe’s most enduring designs, remaining remarkably faithful to the original concept for more than half a century.
This ref. 5738R-001 brings that architecture into a particularly rich contemporary combination. Its ultra-thin 18K rose gold case frames a black soleil dial fitted with twelve applied rose gold baton hour markers, creating a dramatic contrast while retaining the visual simplicity fundamental to the Golden Ellipse. Inside is Patek Philippe’s automatic calibre 240, whose recessed micro-rotor allows the movement and consequently the watch itself to remain exceptionally slender. This example dates to 2025 and is accompanied by its Certificate of Origin, booklets and box set.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, papers, booklets and document holder
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
34.5mm x 39.5mm x 5.9mm
Model
Golden Ellipse
Movement
Automatic Patek Philippe calibre 240
Reference
5738R-001
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
2025
Condition
Near mint
Material
18K Rose Gold
Included
Box, papers, booklets and document holder
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The black soleil dial is deliberately minimal, featuring twelve slender applied rose gold baton hour markers, matching hands and little beyond the Patek Philippe signature. Its radial finish brings subtle movement to the otherwise austere surface, while the warm rose gold details provide a strong contrast against the black dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 18K rose gold case measures 39.5mm by 34.5mm yet is just 5.9mm thick. Its distinctive elliptical form is uninterrupted by conventional projecting lugs, with the strap attaching discreetly beneath the case. This construction allows the watch to sit remarkably flat and emphasises the purity of the Golden Ellipse silhouette.
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 near-mint condition. The 18K rose gold case shows hairline scratches and light scuffs from careful wear. The case back shows a couple of surface scratches. The black dial and hands are like new. It is fitted with a black leather strap and 18K rose gold Ellipse buckle showing surface scratches. Comes with inner and outer boxes, Certificate of Origin, booklets and document holder.
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
Few Patek Philippe designs have remained as visually consistent as the Golden Ellipse. The ref. 5738R preserves the essential simplicity of the 1968 original while its larger proportions give the design greater contemporary presence. In rose gold with a black soleil dial, the contrast is particularly effective: warm, restrained and unmistakably formal, with the ultra-thin calibre 240 allowing the watch to retain the elegance on which the Ellipse was founded.
John Reardon
Collectability.com
