252 Patek Philippe Extremely Rare and in Excellent Condition, Perpetual Calendar Automatic Wristwatch in Gold, Leap Year Indication, Reference 3450, With Box, Extract from the Archives and Original Warranty

Estimate: €220,000 –⁠ 440,000

Model: Perpetual Calendar
Reference: 3450
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1982
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 27-460 Q
Case N°: 558 558
Movement N°: 1 119 637
Dimensions: 37.5 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Accessories: Box, Booklets, Extract from the Archives and Original Warranty

As the successor to the celebrated reference 3448, Patek Philippe’s very first automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch, the reference 3450 was launched in 1981 and was only in production for around five years. With a total production of 237 examples, it was manufactured in yellow or white gold and represents one of the most interesting perpetual calendar ever created by Patek. While physically 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. Towards the end of production in 1985, a very few examples (no more than two dozen) were fitted with a sapphire crystal back and given the reference 3450-100. Offered at auction, the present watch is a wonderfully preserved example of this very rare to find reference 3450 which was discontinued over 37 years ago. The present watch, manufactured in 1982, is among the last generation of reference 3450s ever made before the introduction of reference 3940. While the first generation examples were fitted with a “red dot” to indicate the fourth leap year, second generation examples displayed Roman numbers I, II, III and IV, like the present model. Lightly worn, it reveals the full potential in size and beauty this reference can offer, combining substantial lugs with sharp and clean lines and the still legible hallmarks on the case. Further evidence of carefulness of preservation is the presence of the original warranty and fitted presentation box.