What We Know
Patek Philippe has expanded the Golden Ellipse collection with two new white gold references, the Ref. 5738G-001 in the larger “Jumbo” format (34.5 × 39.5 mm) and the return of the Ref. 3738 in its more traditional proportions (31.1 × 35.6 mm). Both watches are defined by a new olive-green sunburst dial and framed by the harmoniously proportioned white gold case inspired by the Golden Ratio. Applied white gold baton markers and slender hands keep the dial in line with the Ellipse’s long-established codes, unchanged since its introduction in 1968. Both models are, of course, ultra slim, coming in at just under 6mm thick.
The reappearance of the Ref. 3738 is the more historically loaded move. First introduced in 1977 alongside the caliber 240, it established the proportions most closely associated with the Golden Ellipse at its peak in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its return signals a renewed focus on the model’s original scale.
Both references are powered by the ultra-thin self-winding caliber 240 with a 22k gold micro-rotor, allowing for a total case thickness of just under 6 mm. The watches are fitted on olive-green calfskin straps with cream contrast stitching and white gold pin buckles.
What We Think
Despite being created at the tail end of the ’60s, the Ellipse stood firmly as a symbol of Patek in the 1970s. The return of the reference 3738 is the clearest signal of a 1970s revival, bringing the model back in its most historically accurate form, with the same proportions as the original men’s size. The 3738 was discontinued in 2009 and now returns largely unchanged.
At the same time, nothing here has been meaningfully updated. The case, the movement, and the overall construction all remain essentially unchanged. The Ellipse has never been an easy sell, but bringing back the 3738 suggests Patek isn’t trying to make it easier. For the historically minded collectors, without checking, this has to be the first full-scale revival of a decades-old discontinued reference from “the Cross”.
The Basics
Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Golden Ellipse
Reference Number: Ref. 5738G-001; Ref. 3738G/100G-014
Diameter: Ref. 5738G-001: 34.5 × 39.5 mm (Jumbo); Ref. 3738G/100G-014: 31.1 × 35.6 mm (Medium)
Thickness: 5.99 mm
Case Material: 18k white gold
Dial Color: Olive-green sunburst
Indexes: Applied white gold baton hour markers
Lume: No
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Olive-green shiny calfskin leather strap with cream contrast stitching; white gold prong buckle
The Movement
Caliber: Patek Philippe Caliber 240
Functions: Hours; minutes
Diameter: 27.5 mm
Thickness: 2.53 mm
Power Reserve: ~48 hours
Winding: Self-winding (22k gold micro-rotor)
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
Jewels: 27
Chronometer Certified: Patek Philippe Seal
Additional Details: Ultra-thin construction; off-center 22k gold micro-rotor integrated into the movement; Gyromax balance; Spiromax silicon balance spring
Pricing & Availability
Price: Jumbo CHF 34,400 ; Medium CHF 32,400
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