Well Preserved and Fine, Padellone, Perpetual Calendar, Moon Phases, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Extract from the Archives, Reference 3448
Model: Padellone
Reference: 3448
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1977
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 27-460 Q
Case N°: 332865
Movement N°: 1119507
Dimensions: 37.5 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Extract from the Archives
The watch offered here represents Patek Philippe at its purest: the iconic reference 3448, introduced in 1962, which stands as the world’s first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch with a moon phase. This groundbreaking model succeeded the earlier, manually wound references 1526 and 2497, and was powered by the exquisite caliber 27-460 Q (“Q” for Quantième), built upon Patek’s first automatic caliber, the 12-600 AT, launched in 1953. Scholars estimate that only 586 examples of the reference 3448 were produced, predominantly in yellow gold. A select few were made in white gold, with just two re-cased in platinum during the 1990s and only one known in pink gold. The reference was discontinued in 1981, making way for the 3450, which introduced a leap-year indication. Known among collectors as the “Padellone” (Italian for “large frying pan”), this reference is admired for its oversized 37.5 mm case, with angular lugs and a sloped bezel that give the watch a bold, oversized appearance. The design of the case manages to be both oversized and slim, an elegant juxtaposition for the era. The present watch is a very well-preserved example in yellow gold, showcasing sharp lines on the case, remarkably well-defined lugs, and deep hallmarks. It has been meticulously stored over time, allowing it to develop a subtle patina that enhances its vintage appeal. The dial is equally stunning, featuring a hash outer track, flipped date track, and the sigma-Swiss-sigma signature at the 6 o’clock position, indicating the use of gold for the dial’s indexes. Given its rarity, condition, and status as one of Patek Philippe’s finest horological achievements, this “Padellone” is a highly desirable piece that will certainly impress discerning collectors.
