Making its important debut in 1962, the Patek Philippe ref. 3448 is the very first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch in the world by any manufacturer. With a stylistic case symbolic of a “frying pan”, the model earned its nickname the “Padellone” by Italian collectors. Distinctive and unusually attractive, the case features four delicate pointy lugs that are individually welded on to the case. With a clean and sharp 37mm diameter case, the simplistic and perfectly symmetrical dial harmoniously completes the perfect picture.

Launched in 1962 and produced until 1982, the ref. 3448 was made in four series with its distinctive details for each listed below.

- The first series features small calendar ring, indexes closer to the center of the dial and engraved/enameled minute divisions.
- The second series introduces beady minute divisions.
- The third series maintains the beady divisions but introduces the large numerals for the date rings and indexes closer to the outer edge of the dial.
-The fourth series - exemplified by the present timepiece - features printed minute divisions.

With an estimated 586 examples of the reference produced in all case materials with a production spanning over 20 years, the ref. 3448 Padellone is certainly a rare timepiece. Regarded as one of the grail references, the ref. 3448 was the only self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch in the market at the time of its launch for 16 years. Highly sought after in the market and praised by the most celebrated collectors, it is a formidable timepiece with an important place in the respected heritage of Patek Philippe.

The present Patek Philippe ref. 3448 in 18K yellow gold is a specimen that does not occur every day. Extremely well-preserved, the case is crisp with sharp bevels and edges that are extremely hard to come across for this particular reference. Furthermore, it is accompanied by the original Certificate of Origin stamped by Spanish retailer Soto Largo Joyeros, its product literature and its original fitted presentation box.