CIRCA: 1970s
REF.: 3738/100
CASE NUMBER: 4018350
CASE MATERIAL: 18K yellow gold
CASE DIMENSIONS: 31 x 35 mm
DIAL: Sunburst blue sigma with baton hands and stick markers
BRACELET MATERIAL: Black leather with original Ellipse buckle in 18K gold
BRACELET SIZE: 6-1/4 to 7-7/8 inches
MOVEMENT: Automatic microrotor
FUNCTIONS: Time only
CALIBER: 240
The Patek Philippe Ellipse redefined the concept of a dress watch when it was introduced in 1968. The elliptical case was inspired by the golden proportion, discovered by Greek mathematicians. The present example has a perfect blue dial and is extremely understated, with hidden lugs. Inside is the beautiful 25-jewel microrotor Caliber 240.
Condition
Case is in excellent condition and appears to be unpolished, with minor scratches visible through a loupe. Dial is a perfect original Sigma in brilliant blue. The strap is aftermarket, with an original signed Patek Philippe Ellipse buckle in 18K. Watch is running at time of cataloging. Overall, the present example is in excellent condition.
Any reference to condition in a condition report will not include a full description of condition, and for example, may not specify all faults, alteration, adaptation, mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, or dial. Colors and shades may look different online or in printed materials than they look on physical inspection, and images may not clearly show the condition of a lot. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot in person and make their own evaluation of the lot. They must understand that any statement made by Fortuna Auction LLC ("Fortuna") is merely a subjective, qualified statement and does not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Fortuna. All dimensions in catalog descriptions are approximate. No warranties are made that watches in water-resistant cases are currently water-resistant. Fortuna does not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets or leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts.
Pre-owned watches, unless still in original packaging or never worn, will likely have some degree of wear and scratches. This should be expected for many of the watches offered in auction. Even if a watch is running and keeping time, bidders and buyers should expect that all movements will require maintenance. Fortuna recommends that all successful buyers promptly take their watches to a professional watchmaker for evaluation.
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