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Lot Essay
Launched in 1968, the Golden Ellipse represented one of Patek Philippe's boldest departures from traditional watch design. Its distinctive elliptical form was based on the golden ratio —a mathematical proportion long considered the epitome of geometric harmony. The reference 3748, introduced in 1976, was a larger evolution of the original and remained in production until 1994, making it one of the longest-running models in the maison's history.
The present example is a particularly rare configuration. It combines an 18k yellow gold case and integrated bracelet with a dramatic black onyx dial. The deep, rich surface of the natural stone creates a striking contrast against the yellow gold case and hands, giving the watch a decidedly modern appearance more than four decades after it was made.
Hardstone dials represent one of the most fascinating—and underappreciated—areas of Patek Philippe production during the 1970s. Onyx, lapis lazuli, tiger's eye and other natural materials were produced in extremely limited quantities. Because every piece of stone is unique, no two dials are exactly alike, and the fragility of these materials further contributed to their rarity.
The present example is a particularly rare configuration. It combines an 18k yellow gold case and integrated bracelet with a dramatic black onyx dial. The deep, rich surface of the natural stone creates a striking contrast against the yellow gold case and hands, giving the watch a decidedly modern appearance more than four decades after it was made.
Hardstone dials represent one of the most fascinating—and underappreciated—areas of Patek Philippe production during the 1970s. Onyx, lapis lazuli, tiger's eye and other natural materials were produced in extremely limited quantities. Because every piece of stone is unique, no two dials are exactly alike, and the fragility of these materials further contributed to their rarity.