Patek Philippe
Padellone, Reference 3448/5 | A white gold perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases and bracelet | Made in 1971
Auction Closed
May 11, 11:29 AM GMT
Estimate
160,000 - 350,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: silvered
Calibre: cal. 27-460Q automatic, 37 jewels
Movement number: 1'119'200
Case: 18k white gold, snap-on case back
Case number: 328'516
Closure: 18k white gold Patek Philippe integrated bracelet and locking clasp
Size: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 190 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: Blome restauration invoice dated October 2024, copies of service history form 1982 and 2013, copy from the 1982 letter from the Patek Philippe Archive request and Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming bracelet and date of sale on December 22, 1971
Originally sold on December 22nd, 1971 to The Swiss Stores Ltd., as registered in the Patek Philippe archives, the present Patek Philippe reference 3448/5G, stands out as one of the most elusive specimens of this historically significant model. Believed to be one of only six known white gold reference 3448 models fitted with a matching white gold bracelet confirmed by an Extract from the Archives.
Lovingly preserved and unworn since its Patek Philippe service in 2013, the watch exhibits exceptional integrity. Its clearly defined case lines, the hallmarks beneath the lugs, and the untouched geometry of the stepped bezel all speak of the care it has received throughout its life. The dial features the highly sought after pearl minute track. Over time, a uniform, warm patina has gently settled across its surface, imparting a depth that only age can grant.
Of particular note is the white gold bracelet, confirmed by the Extract from the Archives and most likely supplied at the request of the first owner at the time of sale. It presents a specific construction, custom-designed with cutouts to give access to the calendar correctors. In 1982, the owner opted to have it replaced with a crocodile strap at Patek Philippe Geneva, preserving the original bracelet separately until 2013, when it was refitted to the watch by Patek Philippe.
Launched in 1962, reference 3448 holds the distinction of being the world’s first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch. Powered by the sublime calibre 27-460 Q, an evolution of the already celebrated 27-460, it combines mechanical virtuosity with timeless elegance.
To our knowledge, production of the reference was limited to just 586 pieces, the majority of which were made in yellow gold. White gold examples are significantly rarer, with only around 60 examples known.
Over its two-decade production span, the 3448 featured four distinct dial configurations. The present example, featuring beady minute divisions and a large date ring, corresponds to the third dial series, produced between approximately 1971 and 1978.
This reference 3448/5G is a testament to rarity, elegance, and the enduring brilliance of Patek Philippe’s horological mastery.