Patek Philippe Ellipse Reference 4920-2
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1968 (model inception)
Maker / issuer
Patek PhilippeThe Patek Philippe Ellipse, reference 4920-2, is a dress wristwatch featuring an elliptical 18K yellow gold case measuring 32mm in diameter. The case is detailed with a woven rope-style texture surrounding the bezel.
It is equipped with a stone dial composed of lapis lazuli, paired with a matching stylized handset and a signed crown. The watch is presented on an integrated 18K yellow gold bracelet featuring a stylized, open-work design and a locking clasp. Power is provided by the Patek Philippe Calibre 12-250 manual-winding movement. The design of the Ellipse series, introduced by Patek Philippe in 1968, utilizes proportions derived from the golden ratio.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Dial
- Lapis lazuli
- Type
- Dress watch
- Maker
- Patek Philippe
- Material
- 18K yellow gold
- Movement
- Calibre 12-250
- Reference
- 4920-2
- Case Diameter
- 32mm
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Maker / attribution
- Patek Philippe
Design
- Case and Dial
- The watch features a 32mm elliptical case crafted from 18K yellow gold, characterized by its distinctive oval geometry. The bezel is decorated with a textured, woven 'rope' finish that extends visually into the design of the integrated bracelet. The dial is constructed from a thin slice of lapis lazuli, a natural stone known for its deep blue coloration and characteristic inclusions. The dial is minimal, devoid of hour markers, and features a simple handset designed to complement the watch's lines. The Patek Philippe signature is printed on the dial at the 12 o'clock position, with 'SWISS' marked at the 6 o'clock position. The crown, located on the right flank of the case, is signed with the company's emblem.
- Design History
- The Golden Ellipse series was introduced by Patek Philippe in 1968. The design was conceived as an alternative to the prevailing watch shapes of the previous 70 years, aiming to bridge the visual gap between a circle and a rectangle. The proportions of the Ellipse are based on the golden ratio, a geometric principle used to define balance in the dimensions of the case and its presentation. This reference 4920-2 is described by the source as a specific variation within this broader design lineage.
- Visible features
- • The dial is made of solid lapis lazuli stone • The case bezel and bracelet links share a matching woven 'rope' finish • The crown is positioned on the right side of the elliptical case • The handset consists of two slender, stylized hands
- Movement and Bracelet
- The watch is powered by the Patek Philippe Calibre 12-250, a manual-winding mechanical movement. This movement is housed entirely within the 32mm elliptical case. The integrated bracelet matches the case in finish, utilizing an intricate, stylized open-work construction that echoes the rope motif of the bezel. The bracelet is secured by a signed locking clasp, ensuring the assembly remains uniform from the case to the wrist attachment point.
Identification
- Reference
- 4920-2
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The exact year of manufacture for this specific serial number is not provided
- Research required: The source mentions the movement is within, but no specific photograph of the movement is provided