Introduction
Released in 1970, two years after the introduction of the Ellipse collection to Patek's roster, the ref. 3589 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. Offered in multiple dial colors, materials and configurations, the ref. 3589 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 “Sigma” dial, the ref. 3589 that we have here features only gold in its hands and sunken hour markers, making it a collectable timepiece for its tarnish and rust-resistant qualities. Fitted with one of the thinnest automatic movements in the world at the time, the ref. 3589 features the cal. 28-255 - a LeCoultre based movement that enables it to retain a 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 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$5,000 – $7,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
33mm x 35.6mm
Model
Ellipse
Movement
Self-Winding Caliber 28-255
Reference
3589
Bracelet
Leather
Year
Circa 1970
Condition
Excellent
Material
18k White Gold
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Blue
Sigma Dial
The industry-wide Sigma indication was created as part of a larger effort by the Swiss watchmaking industry trade association l'Association pour la Promotion Industrielle de l'Or (APRIOR) to highlight the value of watches using any gold in their construction over those that did not use it. As a result, these timepieces are sought-after by collectors, given gold's tarnish and rust-resistant properties and rare markings at 6 o'clock.
The cal. 28-255
Patek Philippe also used the ref. 3589's movement, the cal. 28-255, in their infamous, and somewhat sporty, Nautilus collection. While it might look to be business from the front, its capable for a lot of fun on the inside too.
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 overall condition of the watch is excellent. Dial is near-mint. Crystal has a couple of extremely light scratches that are only visible under 10x magnification. 18k white gold case has some minor surface abrasions consistant with careful wear. Caseback is in remarkable shape, with only a few mild surface abrasions, and an especially strong hallmark. Sharp edges along case where the polished and brushed surfaces meet. Strap and buckle appear to be original to the watch.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic skin version, shall be provided.
Our Perspective
Offered with its beautiful blue Sigma dial and slightly larger case than before, this ref. 3589 is a gorgeous reminder of classical watchmaking that has made an effort to modernize itself. With the collection's longevity so far, it's hard to think Patek weren't successful in their pursuit, and thankfully so.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
