Patek Philippe 3448 Perpetual Calendar "Disco Volante" 18K Yellow Gold Circa. 1968

The Patek Philippe reference 3448 is one of the key perpetual calendars of the vintage period, and the first serially produced self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch. Introduced in 1962, it combined Patek Philippe's modern Disco Volante case with the caliber 27-460 Q, a movement that helped define the model's place in postwar complicated watchmaking. This example is cased in 18K yellow gold with a silver dial, the classic configuration most collectors associate with the reference. The broad, sloped bezel and angular lugs give the 3448 its distinctive profile, while the calendar apertures and moonphase display keep the dial clear and well balanced. Production was limited, with fewer than 600 examples thought to have been made across all metals. A circa 1968 watch falls within the earlier run of the reference, a period many collectors especially value. The self-winding caliber 27-460 Q remains notable for both its historical position and its execution, including a Gyromax balance and Geneva Seal finishing. Among vintage Patek Philippe perpetual calendars, the 3448 holds a special place. It carries the brand's mid-century complicated watchmaking into an automatic format without losing the restraint that makes the reference so appealing. In yellow gold with a silver dial, it is one of the clearest and most attractive versions of the model. Excellent Condition with Patek Philippe box and Extract from the Archives dated 1968. This is one of the nicest examples we have ever had at EWC in the last 30 years.