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Patek Philippe Ellipse 3848J - 18K Yellow Gold Blue sunburst dial

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Details

A Study In Perfect Proportions

The Patek Philippe Ellipse is one of the pillars of the brand, a design that is as pure and intellectually rigorous as the Calatrava. Introduced in 1968, its form is not arbitrary. The case is a study in the golden ratio, the mathematical principle of perfect harmony that has guided artists and architects for centuries. The reference 3848, produced from 1977 to 1998, represents the classic execution of this idea, pairing the iconic shape with the legendary manual-wind Caliber 215 movement. It is a watch that is immediately recognizable to those who know, a piece of quiet, deliberate luxury.

The Complete And Definitive Example

What elevates this particular Ellipse is its completeness. A vintage dress watch from Patek Philippe is always a strong piece, but finding one with its original box and papers elevates it to a different tier of collectibility. It presents as a time capsule, offering the full context of how it left the factory. The matte blue-grey dial provides a cool, understated contrast to the warmth of the 18K yellow gold case. This dial color is a classic and sought-after configuration for the Ellipse, and its surface is perfectly preserved.

Excellent And Entirely Original

The watch is graded as excellent, a reflection of its sharp case and overall originality. The 18K yellow gold case appears unpolished and is very well preserved, retaining the distinct lines and soft curves that define the Ellipse design. The matte blue-grey dial is clean, and the simple baton markers and hands are pristine. It is fitted to its original leather strap, completing the factory aesthetic. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.

The Ritual Of A Manual Wind Patek

This is a watch for someone who appreciates the core principles of Patek Philippe: timeless design, mechanical integrity, and understated elegance. The Ellipse has always been a choice for the confident buyer, someone who doesn't need the overt recognition of a sports model. Winding the Caliber 215 movement by hand each morning is a tactile connection to this tradition, a quiet ritual that bonds the owner to one of the finest watchmaking houses in history. It is a definitive dress watch that works because of its purity.

Key Specs

Reference: 3848J

Model: Ellipse

Year: 1977-1998

Movement: Manual

Case Size: 27x37mm

Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold

Strap: Original Leather Strap

Dial: Matte Blue-Grey

Metal: 18K Yellow Gold

Includes: Original Box, Original Papers

SKU: 688

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!!!