.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
The reference 3450, successor of reference 3448, was introduced into the market in 1981. The model differs from its predecessor by the modified leap year indication, the small eccentric window at 4 o'clock. The first series was made with a simple red disk and Arabic numerals. The second, such as the present watch, is made with Roman numeral leap year indication.
A total of 244 examples of reference 3450 were made, the majority in yellow gold cases with only two in white gold are known to date. Production of both references 3448 and 3450 was discontinued in 1985 when reference 3940 was launched.
The case back of this 3450 features a 'tab' to easily open the caseback. This subtle and useful detail was added at the time of manufacture by Patek Philippe to a handful of 3450s.
This particular example, previously unknown to the market, features the Tiffany & Co signature, attractively placed underneath the moonphase. According to reserach this is the 5th example with the American retailer's signature to its dial which has come to market since its launch. The exceptional condition of the dial combined with its equally impressive crisp case with sharp facets and hallmarks make this example of the 3450 a specimen example for the most astute collector.
Another example of a ref. 3450 with Roman leap year indicator is illustrated and described in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches - Volume II, p. 297, Inv. P-239.
A total of 244 examples of reference 3450 were made, the majority in yellow gold cases with only two in white gold are known to date. Production of both references 3448 and 3450 was discontinued in 1985 when reference 3940 was launched.
The case back of this 3450 features a 'tab' to easily open the caseback. This subtle and useful detail was added at the time of manufacture by Patek Philippe to a handful of 3450s.
This particular example, previously unknown to the market, features the Tiffany & Co signature, attractively placed underneath the moonphase. According to reserach this is the 5th example with the American retailer's signature to its dial which has come to market since its launch. The exceptional condition of the dial combined with its equally impressive crisp case with sharp facets and hallmarks make this example of the 3450 a specimen example for the most astute collector.
Another example of a ref. 3450 with Roman leap year indicator is illustrated and described in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches - Volume II, p. 297, Inv. P-239.