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Lot #4021

Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Jumbo 3738/100 Retailed by Tiffany & Co. 18k YG

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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. Produced from 1978 until 2009 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 a blue sunburst co-signed Tiffany & Co. dial, the ref. 3738 that we have here features only yellow gold in its hands and baton hour markers, which match the 18kt yellow gold case that they find themselves within. 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.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Extract of the Archives, service paper dated Dec 2024

Est. value range

$25,000 – $35,000

The Details

Brand

Patek Philippe

Dimensions

31mm x 36mm

Model

Golden Ellipse

Movement

Automatic cal. 240

Reference

3738

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

1988

Condition

Excellent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch, Extract from the Archives, and Dec 2024-Dated Service Invoice

Dial Color

Blue

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a large sunburst blue dial, this ref. 3738's is special due to its Tiffany & Co. co-signature at 6 o'clock, which marks this watch as an example that was originally retailed by the iconic American jeweller, a rare and desirable trait for any Patek Philippe.

THE CONSTRUCTION
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
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

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows some light scratches and nicks but remains well defined. The case back has a legible engraving and partially visible hallmarks. The blue Tiffany & Co.-signed Sigma dial is in near-mint condition, and the yellow gold hands are very clean. It is fitted with a Patek Philippe black crocodile strap and a yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle. The watch comes with an Extract from the Archives and associated paperwork.

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.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder