STARRY START

A few milestones in the Golden Ellipse’s 50-year history.

1968: BRIGHT BEGINNINGS

The Golden Ellipse is launched. Measuring 32mm by 27mm, the Ref. 3548’s distinctive form and its bluegold dial make it a hit with watch fans of the day.

1977: GOING AUTOMATIC

Developed under the watch of Henri and Philippe Stern, the ultrathin, self-winding Calibre 240 makes its debut in the Golden Ellipse family, powering models such as the Ref. 3738/1.

1979: FRESH FACES

The design’s form lends itself well to adaptation. Over the years, the rounded rectangle has been refreshed in various ways – larger, smaller, gem-studded, and even horizontally oriented (like the Ref. 3839/1, above).

1993: GEM- PACKED

From the mid1980s to the mid-1990s, new releases of the design tend towards jewellery versions powered by Patek’s quartz movements, such as the E 15 and E 23 C.

2008: LIVING LARGE

To mark the 40th anniversary of the model, Patek Philippe releases Ref. 5738/P, a “jumbo” edition in platinum measuring 39.5mm by 34.5mm. Golden Ellipse models in current production retain this size.