Lot #5364
Patek Philippe Square 3485J Freccero Dial 18K YG with Extract From The Archives
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Introduction
Throughout the 1960s, Patek Philippe explored increasingly adventurous case designs, moving beyond the traditional round Calatrava to embrace the geometric forms that would come to define an important chapter in the manufacture's history. Among the most intriguing creations of this period is the ref. 3485, introduced in 1963 and produced until approximately 1970. Distinguished by its substantial square case, the reference holds particular historical significance as the first square Patek Philippe wristwatch to accommodate the celebrated automatic calibre 27-460. Its case was manufactured by Ponti Gennari, identified by the keymark 26, and its distinctive proportions represented a sophisticated departure from the more conventional dress watches of the era.
Dating to 1965, this ref. 3485J is an especially interesting example thanks to its double-signed dial bearing the name Freccero, the prestigious Montevideo jeweller whose relationship with Patek Philippe forms part of the manufacture's rich history of international retail partnerships. The silvered dial features applied yellow gold baton hour markers and matching hands. Measuring 31mm by 31mm, the substantial 18K yellow gold case houses the automatic calibre 27-460 and features the characteristic crown decorated with the Calatrava cross. The reference is believed to have been produced in particularly small numbers, with fewer than 150 yellow gold examples reported. Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract from the Archives
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
31mm x 31mm
Model
Square Automatic
Movement
Automatic Patek Philippe calibre 27-460
Reference
3485J
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1965
Condition
Excellent
Material
18K Yellow Gold
Included
Extract from the Archives
Dial Color
Silvered, Double-Signed Freccero
THE DIAL
The silvered dial features applied yellow gold baton hour markers and matching hands, creating an elegant contrast with the substantial square case. Its defining detail is the Freccero signature, identifying the watch's association with the historic Montevideo retailer. The restrained two-hand display reinforces the reference's architectural simplicity.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 31mm square case is crafted from 18K yellow gold and was manufactured by Ponti Gennari, whose work is identified by the keymark 26. Its substantial two-piece construction combines broad polished surfaces with sharply defined geometry, while the winding crown features the traditional Patek Philippe Calatrava cross.
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 excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case is well defined, with surface scratches and marks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. A hallmark on the crown side of the case remains legible. The silvered Freccero-signed dial is in near-mint condition, with just a couple of small surface marks. The applied hour markers show some light patina, while the hands remain clean. It is fitted with a leather strap and gold-coloured pin buckle. Comes with a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives.
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
The ref. 3485 occupies a fascinating position in Patek Philippe's history, combining the manufacture's celebrated calibre 27-460 with an unusually bold square case. Its reported low production numbers make it an interesting proposition in its own right, but the Freccero signature adds another dimension of collector appeal.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
