37.5 mm diameter
Reference 3448 was the first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch made by Patek Philippe and was introduced into the market in 1962. The watch was fitted with the new in-house calibre, the 27-460Q, which was patented by the firm. The cases were made by Antoine Gerlach, Key number 4. The well-known Geneva-based supplier was also the case maker specialised for “Calatrava” and “Modern” shape cases for Patek Philippe.
According to literature, there were 586 examples manufactured, 130 were cased in white gold with only two examples in platinum, and only one example in pink gold known to date over the next 20 years. In 1981, reference 3448 was discontinued to make way for the reference 3450 with leap year indication.
The present white gold "Padellone", the nickname given to the reference 3448 by Italian watch collectors, is a premium example of this timeless model. Fresh to the market and bought from an official Patek Philippe retailer in Zurich (Switzerland) in the early 70s, it is consigned by the family of the original owner. It has been preciously kept and wisely worn for over 40 years and it beautifully features elements of early 1970s production run.
It is blessed with several attributes making it stand out from the larger field of references 3448. The dial features the right style seen on reference 3448 from circa 1971 to 1978 with a pearled minute divisions, applied gold indexes and large inverted date numerals around the moon, a rare detail that gives more appeal to every Patek Philippe collector. The offered lot is just few numbers away from the white gold “Padellone” offered in the Phillips New York “Winning Icons” sale with the exact dial and case details.
Last but not least the inside bezel is engraved with “V II V”, Roman numerals for “525”, the last three digits of the case number. Another small detail that certifies the fully originality of the watch. The present watch is a stunningly crisp example, most probably never repolished, with sharp lines to the case and extremely well-defined lugs. Both hallmarks under the lugs, respectively at 1 o’clock and at 7 o’clock, are perfectly visible and absolutely in crisp condition.
Fresh to the auction market, the present “Padellone” offers the best this reference can provide: rarity, looks, condition, and pleasure on the wrist.