Patek Philippe Ref. 3579: Vintage Reference Guide
Reference Guide

Patek Philippe Ref. 3579: Vintage Reference Guide

By quattro · Jul 29, 2025 · 16 replies
quattro
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
16 replies1649 views9 photos
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Emmanuel, known as 'quattro' on WatchProSite, brings to light the elusive Patek Philippe ref. 3579, a reference rarely discussed in collector circles. His detailed post, complete with high-quality images, explores the watch's rumored Japanese market exclusivity and its distinctive design variations. This article delves into why this particular reference, with its unique aesthetic and limited production, continues to intrigue Patek Philippe enthusiasts.

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The Patek Philippe ref. 3579 is rarely seen.

Rumours suggest that it was exclusively produced for the Japanese market, with only 200 pieces having left the manufacture over the years, though this hasn't been officially confirmed.

The steel case measures 33 x 38 mm and the watch is powered by manual winding caliber 23-300.

Best, Emmanuel


A/ Blue dial with markers

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579



Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579
credit: @artbsnr (1-2), @misterenthusiast (3-4) & @sabiwatches (5-6)


B/ Blue dial with Roman numerals

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579
credit: bulang & sons


C/ Silver dial with markers

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579

Watch by Patek Philippe, calatrava, 3579
credit: arbitro 

About the Patek Philippe Ref. 3579

The Patek Philippe reference 3579 is a notable example of the brand's output, distinguished by its relatively uncommon appearance in the market. It is understood to have been produced in limited quantities, with some speculation suggesting a focus on the Japanese market, though official confirmation of this detail and production numbers remains unverified. This reference represents a period of design that is distinct within Patek Philippe's broader catalog.

The watch features a steel case, measuring 33 x 38 mm, a dimension that provides a balanced presence on the wrist. It is powered by the manual winding caliber 23-300, a movement known for its reliability and slender profile. The crystal type is not consistently specified across all examples, but typically would have been acrylic for watches of this era.

For collectors, the reference 3579 holds appeal due to its scarcity and the manual winding movement. Variants observed include dials in blue with markers, blue with Roman numerals, and silver. Its understated design and the quality of its internal mechanism make it a point of interest for those seeking less commonly encountered Patek Philippe models.

Specifications

Caliber
23-300
Case
Steel
Diameter
33 x 38 mm
Dial
Blue, Silver

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
OR
orahu
Jul 29, 2025
Very handsome — especially the blue dial with baton markers.

QU
quattro
Jul 29, 2025
It’s my clear favorite too, here.

Best, Emmanuel

GL
GLau
Jul 29, 2025
Thanks Emmanuel for notifying us of this reference!

I really like the blue dial ! How would you describe this shaped case ?

QU
quattro
Jul 29, 2025
I would call it “tonneau-cushion”,

because it’s a bit of both… The blue dial with baton markers is my favorite too, here. Best, Emmanuel

K-
K-Lo
Jul 29, 2025
Wow! I don’t think there is anything like this in the current line up!!

QU
quattro
Jul 29, 2025
Indeed, there isn’t.

For me, the design has a sort of Grand Seiko flavor, so I tend to believe the rumors of a reference made specifically for the Japanese market. Anyway, it’s a nice reference, especially with the blue dial and baton markers. Best, Emmanuel

Available on the marketplace

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