The reference 3448 holds an important place in the history of Patek Philippe. It was the world’s first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch, replacing the manually wound perpetual calendar references 2497 and 2438/1. Today, it is seen as one of the most sought-after vintage Patek Philippe models due to its robust and sculpted yet harmonious design. Inspired by Bauhaus design, where functionality meets elegance in a celebration of the essential, the reference 3448 is minimalist, eschewing excess to capture the very essence of what's important. The Italian collecting community nicknamed it Padellone due to its case shape reminiscent of a large frying pan.

The present example is preserved in excellent condition. All graphics are crisp and strong, with the dial showing only a subtle ivory or off-white patina that enhances the timepiece's charisma. An intriguing detail is the lack of Sigma. Due to a change in Swiss law and regulation, all dials produced from 1971 feature this designation, which was eventually phased out approximately a decade later. Furthermore, the inside case back holds an engraved key numbered 4, revealing that the case was made by Antoine Gerlach, a case maker manufacture founded in 1871. Gerlach is best known for making the first cases for the Patek Philippe reference 96 - the original Calatrava.

Launched in 1962, the reference 3448 was produced for a period of 20 years before being replaced by the reference 3450; an upgraded movement cal. 27-460QB with a leap year indication. The ref. 3448 houses the automatic calibre 27-460Q. Q referring to Quantième.

The reference was made in four different series and can be determined as follows:

- The first series features small baton minute divisions with engraved/enameled graphics - 1962 to circa 1965
- The second series introduced pearl minute divisions and small date ring (earlier ones have engraved/enameled graphics, whereas later ones are printed) - 1965 to circa 1973
- The third series - exemplified by the present timepiece, maintains pearl minute divisions, and displays a large date ring, the graphics are printed - 1971 to circa 1978
- The fourth series features small, printed minute divisions - from circa 1978

Combining rarity, condition and appearing for the first time on the public market, the present timepiece symbolizes one of the pinnacles of vintage wristwatch collecting.