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 a avant-garde design and signaled an elevated level of taste, coming off the heels of the function-first tool watches that defined the 1960s.

In the years since, 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 particular piece, a Reference 3586/1, dates back to the early 1970s and features a 36mm x 34mm solid 18k yellow gold cushion case with a fantastic, integrated 18k yellow gold woven-style bracelet with a signed locking clasp, a charming champagne sunburst dial with applied ‘stick’ indices and a matching ‘pencil’ handset, and Patek's ultra-thin Calibre 350 self-winding movement. 

Absolutely fantastic.

This lovely example features a near flawless case with crisp factory finishing and an unsized bracelet - a rare find! It also includes its original inner and outer boxes and Certificate of Origin dated from 1972. Its champagne sunburst dial shows some patination, edgewear and discoloration throughout and is priced accordingly - making it the perfect choice to size, wear, and enjoy without fear - or risk turning it into a full-blow safe queen by sourcing a replacement dial.

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.

*Due to the design of this bracelet, sizing alterations may require custom work. Lead time after measurements are established is 4-6 weeks.*