page transition image
Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

Patek Philippe Ellipse 3548 - 18K Yellow Gold Tropical 'Vignette' Dial

Trade In
Details
A Watch Born From A Golden Formula
Launched in 1968, the Patek Philippe Ellipse was a bold departure from the traditional round and rectangular cases of its era. The reference 3548 is one of the earliest and purest expressions of this vision, with a case designed around the "golden ratio," an ancient mathematical principle believed to represent perfect aesthetic harmony. It was a forward-thinking design that was both luxurious and understated, cementing the Ellipse as an icon that remains in the Patek Philippe catalog to this day. This is a watch that captures the essence of late 1960s elegance, executed in solid 18k yellow gold.
A Dial Transformed By Time
What elevates this specific Ellipse into the realm of the extraordinary is its dial. Originally a deep, uniform blue, it has aged into a spectacular "tropical" patina. The center has blossomed into a warm pink and orange hue, creating a vignette effect that fades back to the original blue at its edges. This is not damage, but a natural, unrepeatable transformation of the original materials over decades. The result is a dial that is entirely unique, a piece of abstract art created by chance and time.
An Honest And Wearable Icon
The watch is in good overall condition. The solid 18k yellow gold case is unpolished, showing honest wear while retaining its original factory lines. It and the integrated bracelet have a substantial feel, weighing in at over 74 grams. The star of the show is the dial, whose tropical patina is its defining characteristic. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
A Connection To The Machine
This Ellipse is for the collector who appreciates not just the prestige of the Patek Philippe name, but the beauty of natural aging. It is a conversation piece of the highest order. The manual-wind movement requires a daily ritual of winding, creating a direct physical bond between the owner and the watch. It is a subtle but powerful reminder of the craft and tradition behind this wearable work of art.
Key Specs
Reference: 3548
Model: Ellipse
Era: 1970s
Movement: Manual
Case Size: 27x32mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Integrated
Bracelet: 18K Yellow Gold
Bracelet Length: Fits 6-6.4in
Dial: Original Blue, Aged to a Tropical Pink/Orange Vignette
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 74.2g
SKU: 934
Vintage 1970s Patek Philippe Ellipse 3548 18K YG Tropical Blue Dial Manual 27 mm
Patek Philippe Ellipse 3548 - 18K Yellow Gold Tropical 'Vignette' Dial Sale price$22,000.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!