27 Patek Philippe In Outstanding Condition and Extremely Rare, “Padellone” Perpetual Calendar, Leap Year Indication, Automatic Wristwatch, in Yellow Gold, With Box, Extract from the Archives and Original Warranty, Reference 3450/1

Estimate: €180,000 –⁠ 360,000

Model: Padellone
Reference: 3450/1
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1985
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 27-460QB
Case N°: 2805734
Movement N°: 1119725
Dimensions: 37.5 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Original Certificate, Extract from the Archives and Box

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, until 1985. With a total production of 244 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, this reference replaced the calibre 27–460 with the improved caliber 27–460 QB (Quantieme Bissextile) which features the aperture between 3 & 4 o’clock indicating leap year. In addition, its case back is slightly smaller (of 2 mm), 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 the very rare to find a reference 3450 with integrated bracelet which was discontinued over 37 years ago. The production of Ref. 3450 came in variations, while the first series used a red disc and Arabic numerals, the second series changed to Roman numerals I-IV which the present example belongs to. Considered a classic since its production, Ref. 3450 is now a prime model of vintage Patek Philippe wristwatches. The present watch, manufactured in 1985, is among the last generation of reference 3450s ever made before the introduction of reference 3940. Lightly worn, it reveals the full potential in size and beauty this reference can offer, combining sharp and clean lines and the still legible hallmarks on the case. Due to its increasing rarity, the example shown in this auction could probably be considered one of the most appealing coming to the market in recent years. Offering with its original certificate, extract from the archives and box the watch displays sharp edges on lugs and bands and crisp hallmarks. This watch meets all the demands of a discerning collector.