Patek Philippe 3878J Skeleton Watch: Perfect Fit

sham1 · 2018-02-02T01:40:04Z

Discover the Patek Philippe Ref. 3878J skeleton watch. Sham1 shares his journey to acquire this rare, hand-engraved timepiece and its perfect fit.

sham1

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

64 replies15929 views2 photos

Sham1 shares his journey to acquire a Patek Philippe Ref. 3878J skeleton watch, highlighting its perfect fit on his wrist despite its 31mm size. His post celebrates the artistry of hand engraving and the unique appeal of smaller, rarer Patek Philippe references, contrasting them with more popular models.

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On my third visit to try on this gem of a watch, I finally remembered to have a wrist shot taken. Although measuring only 31mm, my fellow purist buddy, John who knows me like an open book and who has seen it on my wrist has told me that the watch has my name on it and that it would suit me down to the ground. I love this watch more than any other that I do not currently own and hopefully when the watch becomes affordable for me in August this year, it will still be available. Unlike most other skeleton watches, the side of the case has been hand engraved making it quite exquisite. The watch is a discontinued 3878J produced in the 80s and 90s so quite rare and possibly less popular due to its size and the fact that it is a skeleton watch. But this is my slight advantage - I tend to opt for smaller watches that many would deem unpopular like the Patek 5099 cabriolet (see below) which was only produced for less than 3 years with a total production number of fewer than 350 allegedly. That makes it more rare than many Patek limited edition models but yet the price is a relative bargain.

Back to the skeleton, may the next six months fly past and my dream come true. Thank you all for reading

Made for me?!

Not for everyone but I like it too!

About the Patek Philippe Gondolo Ref. 5099

The Patek Philippe Reference 5099 is a limited-edition cabriolet-style wristwatch, drawing inspiration from a historical Patek Philippe timepiece from the late 1920s. This reference is notable for its unique reversible case design, allowing the watch to be worn with either the dial facing outwards or the solid case back presented, protecting the crystal. It represents a modern interpretation of a classic Patek Philippe design, appealing to collectors interested in historically inspired pieces with a distinctive mechanical feature.

The case of the 5099RG is crafted from 18k rose gold, featuring a rectangular shape that articulates the cabriolet mechanism. The watch is powered by a manual-winding mechanical movement, consistent with the traditional watchmaking ethos often found in Patek Philippe's more specialized or limited productions. The crystal protecting the dial is sapphire, ensuring durability and clarity.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Patek Philippe's heritage and its ability to reinterpret historical designs with contemporary craftsmanship. The cabriolet function offers a unique wearing experience and a conversation piece, distinguishing it from more conventional timepieces in the brand's catalog. Its limited production further enhances its desirability among discerning collectors.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal. 215

Case: 18k rose gold

Diameter: 29 x 41 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 25 m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Patek Philippe 3878J skeleton watch is a showcase of artistry and hand engraving, distinct from technologically advanced pieces like the 5650G, which focuses on intricate movement mechanics not visible to the naked eye.
Patek Philippe's exceptional customer service, including a special transfer of the watch from the Salon to an Authorized Dealer and reserving it for the author, demonstrates a level of dedication that deeply impresses collectors.
The 3878J skeleton is considered 'pretty' and 'cutely contrarian' by some, appealing to those who appreciate Patek Philippe pieces that deviate from the brand's more common aesthetic.
The 3878J and the 5099 are in different leagues but both offer a perfect fit for smaller wrists and represent worthy additions to a collection, with the 5099 being particularly attractive due to its rarity and price.
The hand engraving on the side of the case and the micro-rotor are highlighted as particularly mesmerizing elements of the 3878J skeleton, making it more interesting than other Patek Philippe models.
The rarity of the 3878J, being discontinued almost 20 years prior and having a movement originally commissioned by another collector, adds to its allure and a sense of 'fate' for the author.

The Discussion

cirotti

Feb 2, 2018

Wow!!! The 3878 is astonishing....love it..a joy for my eyes!!!All the best..Alex [nt]

sham1

Feb 2, 2018

Thank you very much Alex for saying so!

This watch will not appeal to everyone but its artistry is a sight to behold in my opinion.

piccolochimico (aka dsgalaxy1)

Feb 2, 2018

I hope you'll be able soon to show us many macros

One of the best examples of craftsmanship and real hand engraving. That is something that can't be done by machineries

sham1

Feb 2, 2018

Absolutely! :-)

I think I will ask the great Alkiro to take some close up shots when I meet him with the watch

JToddH

Feb 2, 2018

Wow! Great post!

I think you remind us all how we each strive for that one piece that sings to our hearts. You are fortunate to have found this and I’ve no doubt you will soon be gracing us with more photos of your grail. Best of luck!

sham1

Feb 2, 2018

Thank you very much for your kind words!

I am indeed most fortunate to come across this piece. Considering it was discontinued almost 20 years ago and then to have an esteemed collector commission the last available movement and then to decide to cancel it makes me feel that perhaps it is fate after all