Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse

Golden Ellipse is a line from the Swiss manufacture Patek Philippe, introduced in 1968. The case is an ellipse that brings together a circle and a rectangle, its proportions based on the golden ratio, 1:1.618. The result is a silhouette that has not dated in more than half a century: a smooth outline, a slim profile and a dial free of unnecessary detail.

The automatic Golden Ellipse models use the ultra-thin calibre 240, developed in 1977. Its 22-carat gold micro-rotor is set into the plane of the movement, so the calibre is just 2.53 mm high, with a 48-hour power reserve. Cases are made of 18-carat gold in three colours and 950 platinum. Following manufacture tradition, platinum models have a diamond set in the case flank at 6 o'clock. Dials have a sunburst finish: blue for yellow gold and platinum, brown for rose gold and anthracite grey for white gold.

Within the Golden Ellipse line, the reference indicates the generation. The 3738 models are the earlier compact size, with a 31 × 36 mm case; the 3738/122 and 3738J have an integrated yellow gold bracelet. The current 5738P-001 is larger at 34.5 × 39.5 mm and 5.9 mm thick, on a blue leather strap. The key choices are size for your wrist, metal, and bracelet or strap; for a pre-owned piece, condition and completeness of set matter too.