Launched in 1981, reference 3450 was the successor to reference 3448 - Patek Philippe's very first automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch. While aesthetically similar to reference 3448, it most notably features a leap year indicator on the dial. In addition, its case back is slightly smaller and is fitted with a "tongue", enabling it to be easily removed by the wearer. Notably, it is the first serially made Patek Philippe wristwatch featuring leap year indication allowing for an easier setting of the exact date; earlier models required a potentially very lengthy synchronization procedure to manually identify the leap year and then advance to the current year in the cycle.

Patek Philippe produced very limited quantities of reference 3450, typically casing the model in yellow gold. To date, scholars estimate that Patek Philippe produced only 237 examples in total. While the first-generation examples were fitted with a "red dot" to indicate the leap year, second-generation examples displayed Roman numerals I, II, III and IV, like the present model.

Offered publicly for the second time only, the present 3450 has been preciously kept by the consignor for over 10 years and it is offered in excellent condition with the original Certificate of Origin and accessories. Preserved extremely well, it displays two hallmarks punched on the caseband, and sharp finishes on the side of the case.

The present watch, manufactured in 1985, is among the very last examples of reference 3450s ever made before the introduction of reference 3940 making it an extremely high collectible vintage Patek Philippe.