Patek Philippe

• cal. 28-255 automatic nickel lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 36 jewels, free-sprung Gyromax balance, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and five positions, signed rotor • blue gold dial, applied yellow gold bullet indexes, yellow gold dauphine hands, aperture for date at 3 o'clock • large 18k yellow gold Ellipse case, hidden T-bar lugs, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe Ellipse buckle

The movement is running, however it may require service soon. The dial is very clean with no visible imperfections. The case shows scuffs throughout. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please refer to Important Notices for further information.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production with blue dial in 1977 and sale on September 11th of the following year.

The now-iconic Ellipse line was introduced in 1968. The firm continues to have great success with this instantly recognizable form, the proportions of which are based on an ancient mathematical ratio called the Golden Section.

Reference 3605 was manufactured from approximately 1971-1984 and is the largest Ellipse model the company made.

For further discussion on the Ellipse and reproductions of original advertisements, see Reardon, J. Patek Philippe in America, pp. 268-9 and 290.