Patek Philippe Ellipse:
The Patek Philippe Ellipse, also known as the “Golden Ellipse”, is one of Patek Philippe’s most iconic watch models. Even though it seems not as sought after as other PP models prices started to increase slowly but surely. To me the PP Ellipse is still somewhat of a sleeper and a great collectors item. Here are some important details about the Patek
The Patek Philippe Ellipse was first introduced in 1968. It was a revolutionary addition to the Patek Philippe portfolio and remains one of the company’s most recognizable watches to this day.
Design: The Ellipse is characterized by its elegant and unmistakable design. It has an oval case based on the so-called “golden ratio”, a mathematical proportion that is perceived as particularly aesthetic. The case is neither round nor rectangular, but a harmonious ellipse.
Case material: The Patek Philippe Ellipse was offered in various precious materials including yellow gold, white gold, rose gold and platinum. This gives the watch a luxurious look and feel.
Dial: The dial of the Ellipse is often simple and elegant, with minimal markings and slender hands. It is available in a variety of colours, with blue being one of the most popular and well-known options. But you can find also models with a small second like the Ref. 3948J.
Movement: The Ellipse is equipped with a high-quality mechanical movement. Patek Philippe uses both hand-wound and automatic calibres in various models in the Ellipse range. These movements are known for their precision and reliability.
Strap: The watch often comes with a leather strap or an integrated bracelet that emphasizes the elegant style of the watch.
Combination of elegance and simplicity: The Patek Philippe Ellipse is known for its timeless elegance and simplicity. It is a dress watch characterized by its restraint and refined design.
Popularity: The Ellipse is very popular with collectors and lovers of high-quality watches. It is a symbol of luxury and exclusivity and is often seen as an investment. Over the years, Patek Philippe has brought out various limited editions and special models of the Ellipse that have additional functions or special design elements.
The Patek Philippe Ellipse is an outstanding example of Swiss watchmaking and a symbol of timeless elegance and sophistication.
Rolex King Midas:
The Rolex King Midas is an unusual and rare watch, characterized by its unique design and luxurious materials. Launched in 1962, the King Midas was a limited edition designed by none other than the legend himself Gerald Genta. The watch the name after King Midas. In Greek mythology, it was said that whatever he touched with his left hand turned to gold. This may be the reason why the crown in the shape of the sun is placed on the left side of the square case. The first Midas reference was the 9630 and was produced in a total edition of 1000 pieces, which also included the later references 3580 and 4315. Interestingly, the unique numbering of each watch was maintained across all models. It is interesting to note here that the King Midas was 50% more expensive than a Day-Date in its day, and was in fact the heaviest gold watch on the market. Considering that, we must say that it is still very affordable today. Here are some important details about the Rolex King Midas:
Introduction and name: The Rolex King Midas was introduced in 1962. The name “King Midas” refers to the figure from Greek mythology who turned everything he touched into gold. This is reflected in the luxurious use of gold in the watch.
Design: The King Midas has a distinctive design that is very different from other Rolex models. It has an asymmetrical, geometric case with sharp edges and a solid, rectangular shape. This design by Gerald Genta is unusual and eye-catching, making it a special collector’s watch.
Case material: The case of the King Midas is usually made of solid 18-carat yellow gold. There are also models in white gold. The solid gold case gives the watch considerable weight and extraordinary.
Dial: The dial of the King Midas is often simple and minimalist in order to draw attention to the striking case. It has no superfluous embellishments and often only simple hour markers and hands.
Crown: Another unique feature of the King Midas is the side-mounted crown. Unlike most Rolex models, the crown on most of the King Midas models is placed on the left side of the case.
Bracelet: The King Midas is fitted with an integrated solid gold bracelet. The bracelet often has a special, supple design that emphasizes the luxurious character of the watch.
Limited production: The Rolex King Midas was only produced in limited numbers, making it a coveted collector’s item. Its rarity contributes to its high value on the collector’s market.
Famous wearers: The King Midas has been worn by various celebrities and personalities, including Elvis Presley, who was known for his extravagant lifestyle. But also, nowadays music starts like Rhianna and Travis Scott are wearing this stunning timepiece.
Collector’s value: Due to its unique design, rarity and luxurious materials, the Rolex King Midas is highly sought after by collectors. The value is also depending on the material – white gold King Midas are valued higher to the market.
The Rolex King Midas is a remarkable example of Rolex’s innovative strength and luxurious aspirations. Its unusual design and limited availability make it a fascinating and valuable collector’s item.
Zenith A3630:
The Zenith A3630 is a remarkable vintage diver’s watch that is sought after by collectors due to its unique design and robust construction. I personally am a big fan of the A3630. It is not a common diver watch and not many collectors know about the history and rarity of this tool watch. Here are some important details about the Zenith A3630:
Year of release: the Zenith A3630 was introduced in the early 1970s. This period was characterized by an increased interest in diving watches that were both functional and stylish.
Design: The watch is characterized by a striking and eye-catching design. It has a cushion-shaped case that is typical of the era and has a unique retro charm.
Case: The case of the A3630 is usually made of stainless steel and has a diameter of around 40 mm. It is robust and designed for the demands of diving.
Dial: The dial of the Zenith A3630 is often in a deep blue or black colour and has eye-catching, luminous hour markers and hands. This ensures good readability under water.
Movement: Inside the Zenith A3630 is often the automatic calibre 2552PC, a reliable and precise movement used by Zenith in the 1960s and 1970s.
Water resistance: The A3630 is designed as a diver’s watch and offers a water resistance of up to 300 meters (1000 feet), making it suitable for serious diving use.
Rarity: Due to its limited production time and its special design, the Zenith A3630 is relatively rare today and highly sought after by collectors.
Collector’s value: The value of the Zenith A3630 can vary greatly depending on its condition. But over the last years these watches gained a substantial importance in the collector’s community. Prices have been increasing and at the moment I am writing this article there is worldwide non for sale. The combination of historical value, eye-catching design and technical reliability makes the Zenith A3630 a fascinating watch for collectors and lovers of vintage diving watches.
