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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Ladies' wristwatch

Patek Philippe Ellipse Reference 4217/1 Ladies' Wristwatch

Partially verified

This 1970s Patek Philippe ladies' wristwatch, reference 4217/1, is constructed from 18K white gold. It features an Ellipse-style case measuring 21 mm by 23.5 mm, paired with an integrated 18K white gold mesh bracelet that incorporates a hammered texture finish. The watch dial is finished in a blue sunburst pattern and is identified in the source as a "Sigma" dial, indicating the presence of gold indices and hands. The case exhibits a geometric profile and is managed via a side-mounted crown. The auction description reports the watch has undergone service and is currently functioning. The total length of the piece is determined by its integrated bracelet, which is designed to fit a wrist between 6.25 and 6.5 inches. No accessories are included with this timepiece.

Frontal view showing the 18K white gold case, blue sunburst dial with Sigma marking, and the integrated hammered-finish mesh bracelet.
Frontal view showing the 18K white gold case, blue sunburst dial with Sigma marking, and the integrated hammered-finish mesh bracelet. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Ladies' wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Patek Philippe
Reference
4217/1
Catalogue / lot identifier
PP42171
Source-reported date
1970s
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
27XXXXX / 12XXXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Bracelet Construction

The watch features a geometric case crafted from 18K white gold. The case is finished with a brushed surface and is paired with an integrated 18K white gold mesh bracelet.

The bracelet is a notable component of the object's design, featuring a hammered texture throughout its surface. The auction description reports that the case is well-preserved and exhibits no signs of prior polishing, while the bracelet is described as free from stretch, maintaining its structural integrity.

Evidence for this section
  • “The attractive, geometric 18K white gold case is exceptionally well-preserved”
  • “The integrated 18k white gold bracelet is a work of art and features a gorgeous hammered texture finish.”

Dial and Hands

The timepiece is fitted with a blue sunburst dial marked as a "Sigma" dial. This designation refers to the small symbols flanking the "SWISS" text at the bottom of the dial, signifying the use of gold for the indices and hands. The dial surface exhibits some age-related changes, including a localized area of degradation near the bottom left quadrant.

The hour and minute hands are constructed from solid white gold to match the case material. The auction description notes that despite the metallic dial's expected aging, the hands remain in a flawless condition without external damage to the dial's primary surface.

Evidence for this section
  • “The original blue sunburst "Sigma" dial is simply beautiful, and exhibits some expected age”
  • “The original solid white gold hands are also flawless.”

Provenance and Condition

The watch is identified by reference 4217/1 and serial numbers provided by the vendor as 27XXXXX / 12XXXXX. It is a ladies' model, with the case dimensions measuring 21 by 23.5 mm. The item does not include any original boxes or documentation.

The auction description reports that the watch was recently serviced and is currently maintaining accurate time.

Evidence for this section
  • “The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly”
  • “backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber housed within the 4217/1 reference?
  • Does the visible dial degradation near the seven o'clock position indicate moisture intrusion or organic aging of the lacquer?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Patek Philippe Ellipse Reference 4217/1 Ladies' Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
BrandPatek Philippe“Patek Philippe”
Reference4217/1“ref. 4217/1”
Case Material18K white gold“cast in 18K white gold”
Case Dimensions21 mm by 23.5 mm“21 X 23.5”
Bracelet TypeIntegrated 18K white gold mesh bracelet“Integrated 18K WG Mesh Bracelet”
Dial DesignationBlue sunburst "Sigma" dial“blue sunburst "Sigma" dial”
Wrist Size Compatibility6.25 to 6.5 inches“fit between a 6.25-inch and 6.5-inch wrist”
Condition NotesNo notable evidence of prior polishing“no notable evidence of prior polishing present”

Visible details

  • Blue sunburst dial with applied baton indices
  • Hammered texture on the integrated white gold mesh bracelet
  • Geometric case shape with straight-line transitions
  • Small area of dial degradation visible near the seven o'clock position

Research qualifications

  • The exact serial number is partially masked in the source
  • The source notes dial age typical of metallic dials of this era, which includes visible surface degradation

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی زنانه Patek Philippe Ellipse دهه ۱۹۷۰، طلای سفید ۱۸ عیار، رفرنس 4217/1 با صفحه آبی «Sigma»

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 07a98518ed

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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