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Patek Philippe Ellipse 3848J - 18K Yellow Gold Blue Sunburst Dial

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Details
A Design Born From The Golden Ratio
The Patek Philippe Ellipse is one of the most enduring and elegant designs of the 20th century. Launched in 1968, its shape is famously derived from the "golden ratio," an ancient mathematical principle of harmonious proportions. The Reference 3848, produced between 1977 and 1998, captures this purity perfectly. Its iconic form, halfway between a circle and a rectangle, is rendered here in solid 18K yellow gold. Paired with a deep blue sunburst dial, the watch is a masterclass in minimalist design, proving that true luxury needs no complication or excess.
An All Original, Complete Example
What sets this particular Ellipse apart is its completeness. The watch retains its original Patek Philippe leather strap and, crucially, its signed 18K gold buckle. For a vintage dress watch of this caliber, finding an example that has not had its key components replaced over the decades is increasingly difficult. This piece offers the experience of owning an Ellipse just as it would have been delivered from the boutique, a detail that is paramount for serious collectors.
Excellent And Uncompromised
This example is in excellent overall condition. The 18K yellow gold case is sharp, unpolished, and well-preserved, showing minimal signs of wear. The signature blue sunburst dial is perfect, with no degradation to the finish, and the crystal is clean and free of marks. The original strap and buckle are likewise in fantastic shape, completing a package that is both honest and uncompromised. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
The Ritual Of A Manual Movement
The Ellipse is more than just a beautiful object; it is an experience. The manual wind movement inside requires a daily interaction, a quiet moment each morning to power the watch for the day ahead. This simple ritual creates a tangible connection between the owner and the machine, a bond that is lost with automatic pieces. For the person who appreciates timeless design, uncompromising quality, and the deliberate pace of a hand-wound watch, this Ellipse is a perfect fit.
Key Specs
Reference: 3848J
Model: Ellipse
Year: 1977-1998
Movement: Manual
Case Size: 27x37mm
Bezel: Integrated 18K Yellow Gold
Strap: Original Leather Strap
Dial: Blue Sunburst
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Includes: Original Patek Philippe Buckle
SKU: 1389

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!!!