Introduced in 1968, the Ellipse was Patek Philippe’s ode to the golden ratio, embodying the fluid elegance and expressive tastes of the late 1960s. Two years later, in 1970, the maison unveiled the ref. 3589 “Grand Ellipse”, the very first Patek Philippe to house the celebrated cal. 28‑255. At the time it was the world’s thinnest full‑rotor automatic movement, measuring only 2.45mm in height. This genius of engineering would go on to power three of the most iconic luxury sports watches of the 1970s: the Nautilus, the Royal Oak, and the 222.

The present ref. 3589 features a stunning black dial and elliptical white gold case. Characteristic of the Ellipse’s design purity, the watch dispenses with conventional lugs. Instead, the strap is affixed via discreet posts at the back of the case, ensuring a seamless, modern silhouette on the wrist—an achievement in design as bold today as at its debut.

Kept in the collection of the present owner for over 20 years, this watch an exceptionally rare find.