Patek Philippe. A fine and rare 18K gold automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases, Roman leap year indicator and original certificate

With Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin and Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with silvered dial and raised gold markers in 1984 and its subsequent sale on 11 December 1984.

The present reference 3450 is a magnificent example from this model's mid-1980's production, no longer featuring the Arabic leap year indication with the red dot but instead the Roman numerals going from I, II, III to IV. Still retaining the original transparent factory sticker to the case back, one can safely conclude that this watch has never been worn or serviced. The case proportions are exceptionally sharp and crisp and the hallmarks are as clear as they were in 1984 when this watch was sold to its first owner.

Acquired by the present owner some 14 years ago in these sale rooms, this watch has always been treated with the utmost care and respect. As a consequence, it has survived to these days with its original certificate and can very comfortably be described as one of the world's best examples of this landmark reference.

In 1981, reference 3450, successor of reference 3448 was introduced into the market with the improved 27'460 QB (Quantième Bissextile) calibre. The model differs from its predecessor by the modified leap year indication, the eccentric small window at 4 o'clock. The first series was made with a simple red disk and Arabic numerals, the second, such as the present watch, with Roman I, II, III and IV leap year indication.

A total of 244 examples of reference 3450 were made, the majority in yellow gold cases, only two in white gold are known to date.

Production of both references 3448 and 3450 was discontinued in 1985 when reference 3940 was launched.

Reference 3450 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 290, pl. 449a.