Here we have a stunning 1985 Patek Philippe Ellipse. This fine example is in immaculate condition with a stunning midnight blue sunburst dial which contrasts nicely with the 18k solid yellow gold case. The case is in a lovely original condition, never having been buffed or polished and as such, retains all it’s original lines and finishes. The original sapphire crystal is impeccable, allowing the 18k yellow gold hour markers and hands to shine through. 

Freshly serviced, and keeping excellent time, this Ellipse is one of the most stunning examples you will find, anywhere. It sits well on any wrist and I find the Ellipse to be a particularly versatile watch, suiting men and women alike. Whether it is paired with a casual shirt and jeans or worn as a dress your best suit, this watch makes for very interesting piece. The case measures 27.5mm by 32.5mm excluding the crown. Being a vintage watch there is some very light signs of wear, however being that this watch is over 30 years old, we don't think you'll find one in better condition, nor will you really see anyone wearing one and that's always nice.

The watch also comes with its original box, which is a great addition to the piece. The clam-shaped box is in lovely condition with black outer shell, lovely soft red leather removable interior box, with Patek inscribed in gold on the inside lid. The watch currently sits on a very high quality handcrafted Crocodile leather strap in gloss black, which is fantastic and has had very little wear, it also has it's original 18k solid yellow gold clasp.

Complete with extract from the archives, providing some lovely provenance and details about the watch

The design of the Patek Philippe Ellipse’s iconic shape was actually modelled around the ‘golden ratio’ or as it sometimes referred ‘the divine proportion’ the term coined in Luca Pacioli’s book which was illustrated by Leonardo Divinci. The book showed how the golden ratio of mathematics could be seen in architecture, the human body and nature and has since been embraced in art. The Golden Ratio is a unique number found by dividing a line into two parts so that the longer part divided by the smaller part is also equal to the whole length divided by the longer part. It’s appeal has been scientifically proven and Patek Philippe chose to adopt the principle in designing the Ellipse, producing a watch that was neither round or square and of perfect proportions.

Whilst this has become a staple mark of design now, in 1968 when the Ellipse was released, this was completely revolutionary especially considering the ultra thin movement and case design. The Ellipse was and is subtle yet very recognisable, tasteful and a piece of iconic design.

Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Ellipse
Reference: 3468
Year: 1985
Movement: manual wind
–
Diameter: 27.5mm by 32.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
–
Box/Papers: Original Box and Extract from the Archive papers