87 Patek Philippe Absolutely Fine and Glamorous Ellipse Squelette Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Reference 3880

Estimate: € 14,000 –⁠ 28,000

Sold € 18,200

Model: Skeletonized
Material: Yellow gold
Reference N°: 3880
Year: 1990
Case N°: 2854669
Caliber: 177
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 1389494
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 27x32mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives

Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in rose gold in 1990 and its subsequent sale on 28 March 1990.

The Ellipse model has certainly allowed Patek Philippe watchmakers to give free rein to their imagination, especially in the decade between 1980 and 1990, when the skeleton model was developed. The reference 3880, launched in 1980 and discontinued in 1998, represents the firm’s first skeletonized wristwatch made in series together with the 3881. According to our research the present lot is one of only 20 pieces known to the market. Its style has nowadays become an absolute institution among collectors and admirers of Patek models with its oval shape and rounded corners. The yellow gold case of the lot offered here is nicely preserved and presents a beautiful homogeneous principle of oxidation all over the rounded edges. The whole skeletonize structure is simply amazing and hits at every single glance allowing the viewer to admire the finely crafted mechanical movement. The stag beetle black hands stand out as the only dark element in the entire watch. The present lot is also offered with the extract from the archives confirming its production in 1990. Iconic creation and a real flagships of the Patek Philippe collection, the Ellipse model and specifically the reference 3880 is now object of desire of many collectors and this is the chance to purchase one fo the very few available.