Produced during the 1960’s for less than ten years, the Patek Philippe model Ref. 3440, famous for its self-winding movement and threaded case back, showcases perfectly the technical and design qualities that place this manufacturer at the very top.

The 18k gold case, 34mm in diameter, bears the mark of the Swiss case maker, Antoine Gerlach, who worked on some of Patek Philippe’s best known watch models of that era. The subtly beveled bezel, the striking lugs in three facets, and slightly recessed crown are well preserved and offer just the right amount of detail. All these elements offset skillfully the original dial, with its elongated gold hour indicators and hard-enamel logo.

Powered by caliber 27-460, this movement with automatic winding is particularly agile, given its full rotor in 18k gold and 37 jewels. The superb quality and finishing of the movement and case are underlined by the Poinçon de Genève quality mark, which is stamped twice on this example.