Patek Philippe Ellipse

Introduced in the late 1960s, the Patek Philippe Ellipse was inspired by the Golden Ratio, referred to as the ‘Divine Proportion’ by Luca Pacioli. An observed ratio in nature, the Golden Ratio is said to be an aesthetically balanced ratio used on the human body, trees, and more. With the Ellipse, Patek made the ratio of the major to the minor axis 1.618 to 1 — the golden ratio, de divina proportione.

The same shape is applied to the pin buckle, which itself is an ellipse. Debuting eight years before the iconic Nautilus, the Ellipse — with its distinctive oval shape — was unlike anything else in Patek Philippe’s catalogs. During the 60s and 70s, the Ellipse line became emblematic of the era for design and signaled an elevated level of taste, particularly given the popularity of function-first tool watches that defined the 1960s for many.

The Ellipse was designed to create a new design immediately recognizable as luxurious in a changing industry. Keep in mind that the Ellipse launched just before the quartz crisis. Patek was well aware of what was coming, and responded preemptively with a banger. The Ellipse became the watch to have if you were successful. Today, the Ellipse remains an excellent value in the world of vintage and neo-vintage Patek Philippe.

When most think of the Ellipse, the 3748 is one of the first references that comes to mind. Thierry Stern best described the Ellipse in 2018 celebrating the 50th anniversary of the model: “It’s one of those watches that shows you how to make a Patek Philippe. No gimmicks, just purity and beauty expressed through simple design”.

‘Nough said.

While for many years the Ellipse line fell out of popular favor, we’ve seen a resurgence of collector enthusiast interest in the design in recent years. These watches have a charm that brings a smile to your face subconsciously. Watches such as this one are delightful timepieces that stand out brilliantly in a room full of steel sports watches, once again signaling an elevated understanding of what watchmaking can — and perhaps should — be.

This particular Ellipse, a Reference 3748J, is one of the most classic configurations for the Ellipse, executed in 18K yellow gold with a vibrant blue 'sigma' dial. The 3748 was one of earliest Ellipse references and is fitted with a Calibre 215 manually wound movement. Featuring a signed Calatrava cross crown, and an unique 18K yellow gold ellipse buckle, this 3748 is set on an alligator leather Patek Philippe black strap.

If you are a lover of Patek Philippe, this desirable variant is the one to get!

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.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

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.