The Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse reference 5738P-001 is a distinguished luxury dress watch characterized by its 34.5mm x 39.5mm elliptical case crafted from 950 platinum. Introduced in 2008 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the collection, the timepiece features proportions inspired by the golden ratio. The sunburst blue dial is made from an 18k gold plate and is adorned with applied white gold baton-style hour markers and cheveu-style hands. A hallmark of Patek Philippe’s platinum models, a single brilliant-cut diamond is set into the case flank at the 6 o’clock position. The watch maintains a remarkably slender profile with a case thickness of only 5.9mm, secured by a solid platinum caseback.
The timepiece is powered by the ultra-thin, self-winding caliber 240, which measures just 2.53mm in height. This mechanical movement features an off-center 22k gold minirotor, 27 jewels, and a minimum power reserve of 48 hours. It incorporates a Gyromax balance and a Spiromax balance spring, ensuring chronometric precision as indicated by the Patek Philippe Seal. As a pure dress watch, the 5738P-001 focuses on simplicity with a time-only complication displaying hours and minutes. The watch is paired with a shiny navy blue alligator leather strap and a platinum prong buckle designed to echo the elliptical shape of the case.
General reviews of the 5738P-001 emphasize its status as a timeless icon of understated elegance and class. Collectors often praise its “divine” proportions and the vibrant depth of the blue sunburst dial, which is achieved through a cobalt treatment on the gold dial plate. While its slimness is lauded for providing exceptional wearability under a dress cuff, some collectors have noted a personal preference for a manual-winding movement to match its traditional aesthetic. Despite its non-traditional shape, it is widely regarded as one of the most refined and recognizable models in the Patek Philippe catalog, offering a unique alternative to standard round or rectangular timepieces.