Patek Philippe

It is easy to assume that the name ‘Golden Ellipse’ refers to the metal of the case, but actually, it in fact refers the Golden Ratio. This proportion is believed to the ‘De Divina Proportione’, a ratio 1 to 1.6181 that is the perfect point at which to divide a line into two harmonious if unequal lengths. This was the underpinning for design of the ellipse and explains why it has remained a popular line for Patek Philippe for over 50 years. This design has been used by the brand for an extended repertoire of pieces beyond the initial the line of wristwatches and includes key fob’s, rings, lighters money clips, and in this example a spectacular pocket watch.

The Ref 879 was in the Patek Phillippe general catalog in 1976, but this is the first time one has come to be offered to market since. Interestingly, the watch retains two reference numbers, the first for the watch as a whole, and then a second in the watches case back of the watch head of Ref 3548, a corresponding Golden Ellipse reference number.

In addition, the current watch wears a hard-stone dial, a sliver of vivid blue Lapis Lazuli, with no hour or minute marker, just simply the Patek Philippe and Geneve text above the hands, and swiss at 6 o’clock. The case is constructed from 18k white gold and is set with approximately 4.18 ct. of diamonds. In addition, the watch is accompanied by a stunningly malleable white gold chain with diamond set clips at either end and stamped by its maker, Gay Frères.

The watch is presented in superb condition and is accompanied by its original presentation hard case box and with its original Patek Philippe retailers hang tag.