Patek Philippe Ellipse

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 catalogs. In period, 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.

In the intervening years, the Ellipse and many of its contemporaries fell out of favor with collectors who favored purpose built steel chronographs and divers that were closely associated with tales of adventure and exploration. Many of these wonderful, design-forward timepieces were lost in the recesses of vaults or sock drawers — or worse — melted down for their gold value. 

Only recently have we seen the start of an evolution in the mindset of contemporary collectors — a groundswell of appreciation for more artistic expressions of timekeeping is occurring at this very moment, and forgotten gems of the 70s and 80s are once again being discovered and appreciated for the works of horological art they truly are.

This Ellipse, a Reference 3930J, is a great representation of the distinctive style of the ellipse. It features a 29mm 18k yellow gold case with a sapphire crystal, a date window at 3 o'clock, and a cream dial with applied gold indices and a matching pencil handset. Power comes from a Patek quartz movement.

Absolutely fantastic.

Perhaps the coolest element is the unique strap integration allowing this watch to possess a distinctly fashionable styling.

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.

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few luxury brands in the world 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.

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 two-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.