Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Hong Kong, Jun 01, 2024
LOT 231
PATEK PHILIPPE, REF. 3878J, SKELETONIZED, 18K YELLOW GOLD
HKD 200,000 - 300,000
EUR 23,800 - 35,700 / CHF 23,200 - 34,800 / USD 25,600 - 38,400
Sold: HKD 287,500
A very fine and very rare, skeletonized, self winding 18K yellow gold wristwatch.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AAA |
Excellent |
Case: 2-8 |
Very good Slightly scratched |
Movement: 2* |
Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 2-01 |
Very good HANDS Original |
Brand Patek Philippe
Model skeletonized
Reference 3878J
Year Sold on 7th Oct, 1994
Movement No. 1239301
Bracelet PP 18K yellow gold buckle
Diameter 31 mm.
Caliber 240SQ, 27 jewels
Weight 63gr. (approx.)
Signature dial, case and movement
Accessories PP fitted box, certificate of origin dated 7 Oct 1994, instructions booklet, PP brown leather folder and leaflet
Notes
The Patek Philippe Reference 3878 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of luxury watchmaking, both for Patek Philippe and the industry as a whole.
By the 1980s, the watch industry had begun to recover from the Quartz Crisis, a period during the 1970s and 1980s when quartz technology significantly impacted the traditional watchmaking industry. Brands like Patek Philippe sought to reassert the value of mechanical watches and their intricate craftsmanship.
The Reference 3878, introduced in 1981, was Patek Philippe’s response to this changing landscape. As the brand’s first automatic skeletonized wristwatch, it showcased the intricate beauty of mechanical movements, emphasizing the artistry and skill involved in creating such a timepiece. Its skeletonized design allowed wearers and enthusiasts to admire the movement directly, a feature that highlighted the brand’s commitment to excellence in watchmaking.
Encased exclusively in 18K yellow gold, the Reference 3878 was a testament to luxury and exclusivity, with only about 500 pieces produced over its approximately 26-year production run. This rarity, combined with its craftsmanship and place in Patek Philippe’s history, has made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
By the 1980s, the watch industry had begun to recover from the Quartz Crisis, a period during the 1970s and 1980s when quartz technology significantly impacted the traditional watchmaking industry. Brands like Patek Philippe sought to reassert the value of mechanical watches and their intricate craftsmanship.
The Reference 3878, introduced in 1981, was Patek Philippe’s response to this changing landscape. As the brand’s first automatic skeletonized wristwatch, it showcased the intricate beauty of mechanical movements, emphasizing the artistry and skill involved in creating such a timepiece. Its skeletonized design allowed wearers and enthusiasts to admire the movement directly, a feature that highlighted the brand’s commitment to excellence in watchmaking.
Encased exclusively in 18K yellow gold, the Reference 3878 was a testament to luxury and exclusivity, with only about 500 pieces produced over its approximately 26-year production run. This rarity, combined with its craftsmanship and place in Patek Philippe’s history, has made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
Provenance
Property of an Asian collector