Patek Philippe Ref.3550/1

The Patek Philippe 3550/1: A white gold masterpiece of form and texture.

In the world of Patek Philippe, every watch tells a story, but the Reference 3550/1 takes us back to a special turning point in history. Although the official Gondolo line wasn’t launched until 1993, the DNA of this collection has been running through the brand’s veins for decades. The 3550/1 is living proof of this: a “form watch” that breaks with the tradition of the round watch and embraces the geometry of Art Deco.

While most examples from this period were crafted in warm yellow gold, this particular example is crafted in 18-karat white gold. This gives the watch an understated, almost icy elegance that perfectly complements the minimalist aesthetic of the 1960s and 1970s. With its modest yet powerful dimensions of 23 x 26 mm, it is a paragon of vintage refinement; A watch that doesn’t scream for attention, but rather commands it with its perfect proportions.
What makes the 3550/1 truly unique is the harmony between case and bracelet. The /1 in the reference number reveals the secret: an integrated bracelet. The white gold case flows seamlessly into the bracelet, giving the watch the appearance of a sculptural piece of jewelry. The subtle texture on the dial, often a delicate brushing or guilloché, is enhanced by the sleek baton indices, resulting in a dial that exudes tranquility and class.

Under the hood lies pure horological perfection. The 3550/1 is powered by the legendary Caliber 175. This hand-wound, ultra-thin movement allowed Patek Philippe to keep the watch’s profile extremely flat. Despite its small size, the movement has often been awarded the prestigious Geneva Seal, a guarantee that every component is hand-finished according to the strictest standards of haute horlogerie. Although this watch was created decades after the heyday of the Brazilian retailer Gondolo & Labouriau, it exudes the same spirit of exclusivity. It recalls the time when the “Gondolo Gang” gathered in Rio de Janeiro in their signature straw hats, united by their love for Patek Philippe’s bold case shapes.

This particular piece (“watch only”) is more than a timekeeper; it’s a rare relic from an era when Patek Philippe proved that a watch doesn’t have to be a circle to approach perfection. An understated white gold icon for the connoisseur who knows that true luxury lies in the details.