Patek Philippe Ellipse 'Skeleton'

Sometimes, a watch is just a watch. And sometimes, it’s a true piece of art.

In 1968, Patek Philippe released the Golden Ellipse. Debuting eight years before the iconic Nautilus, the Ellipse — with its distinctive oval shape — was unlike anything else in Patek Philippe’s catalog. Its shape, which falls somewhere between that of a circle and a rectangle, was meant to be a departure from the more conventional watch case designs of the preceding 70 years. And the design was highly considered: Based upon the “golden ratio” of the ancient Greeks, its proportions are particularly pleasing to the eye. 

This particular example, a reference 3880J, is wildly rare. One of less than 30 examples made between the 1980s and 1990s with a skeletonized dial, it features an extraordinary, openworked Calibre 177 manually-wound movement in which many of the calibre’s components are fashioned from gold. On the dial side of the case, it’s possible to view the signature Calatrava cross fitted over the mainspring — the hallmark of Patek Philippe. This gorgeous movement and dial are fitted to a 32mm 18K yellow gold elliptical case and paired to a black leather strap with a signed 18K pin buckle. 

A timepiece such as this one — which ships with an extract from Patek confirming production and sale in 1994 — is a true piece of art, beautiful and scarce. There's no telling if and when one of these in any condition will surface again, so don't wait!

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few international luxury brands carry the gravitas of their name, and for good reason. The firm's commitment to excellence in horological manufacture is unflinching, and their track record of innovation in design without peer. They continue to lead the industry, and even their fiercest competitors have nothing but the utmost respect for the company.

From the simple elegance of their Calatrava line to the stunning study in miniaturization that is reference 1518 perpetual calendar to the modern reference 5750P chiming watch, Patek’s catalog is chock full of some of the most elegant and complicated timepieces ever made. Family-owned and completely independent, the firm has the freedom to do what it wants — such as discontinue one of the world’s most beloved steel luxury sport watches, the reference 5711 — when it wants.

Owning a Patek Philippe is for many the ultimate goal of timepiece collecting, and for a certain type, the only timepieces they collect. Whichever way you look at it, there is no questioning the elegance of design, superlative manufacture of their cases and movements, or the sheer elegance and emotion that comes from owning one.

Of course for a brand that is steeped in heritage, we are told “You never actually own a Patek Philippe…”

Well, you know the rest.

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Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.