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Property of the Original Owner

995Σ

Patek Philippe

Ref. 3878J-001

A fine and rare yellow gold skeletonized wristwatch with engraved case, dial, Certificate of Origin and presentation box

Estimate
HK$140,000 - 280,000
€15,500 - 31,000
$17,900 - 35,900
HK$508,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Patek Philippe
Year
Circa 2023
Reference No
3878J-001
Movement No
1'239'438
Case No
4'356'921
Material
18K yellow gold
Calibre
Automatic, cal. 240 SQ, 27 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Crocodile
Clasp/Buckle
18K yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle
Dimensions
31mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Accessories
Accompanied by Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin stamped Berry's Jewellers, UK dated 16th August 2023, service report dated 11 June 2025, leather folio, instruction manual, product literature, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Produced from 1981 to 1998, the Patek Philippe reference 3878 was crafted exclusively in 18K yellow gold, this model encapsulates the essence of the brand and its aesthetic ideals. The highly engraved movement is a true work of art, with each bridge and plate showcasing the brand’s meticulous attention to detail and expert hand craftsmanship. The reference 3878 marked Patek Philippe's first self-winding skeletonized watch, with only about 60 examples have resurfaced so far in auctions.

What makes this particular watch even more special is that the original owner purchased it in 2023, 25 years after the reference was discontinued, where this piece was originally commissioned by a special customer in 2018, who later canceled the order.

The present reference 3878 comes with a complete set of accessories, including the Certificate of Origin, presentation box, and a service report from June 2025 confirming the watch was purchased in 2023. The report also states that an overhaul was performed and the watch will remain under warranty for an additional two years. This total masterpiece allows the wearer to celebrate the artistry and horological excellence of Patek Philippe—an opportunity not to be missed.

Patek Philippe

Swiss | 1839
Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.
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