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The Ellipse, Slightly Off Course.
The Ellipse has always been one of Patek Philippe’s most recognizable ideas. A flagship shape, instantly identifiable, and quietly collected for decades by people who already know their way around the brand’s catalog. When a model like that survives long enough, something interesting happens. Variations start to appear that weren’t designed to please everyone.
The ref. 5028G is one of those variations.
Produced between 1997 and 2003 in fewer than 500 examples, this Ellipse was made exclusively in white gold and sits apart from the traditional dress-leaning versions that came before it. It is larger at 31 by 35 millimeters, making it one of the biggest Ellipse references ever produced, and it carries itself differently on the wrist because of it. Broader, flatter, and more present, yet still unmistakably an Ellipse.
The dial sets the tone immediately. Glossy black, painted Arabic numerals, a clean white minute track, and no luminous material. The layout feels purposeful and more instrument-inspired than formal. There’s an automotive quality to it, reminiscent of vintage sports car dashboards where legibility mattered. That sport character carries through to the off-center seconds, shifted down and to the side rather than parked neatly at six. It breaks symmetry in a way that feels intentional and a little mischievous.
Inside is the automatic caliber 240 PS, a movement collectors know well and trust deeply. Thin, refined, and beautifully engineered, it allows the case to keep its elegant proportions while offering the convenience of automatic winding. This is the same movement family used across several of Patek Philippe’s most enduring modern references, and it suits the 5028G perfectly.
On the wrist, the watch wears with a personality that surprises people familiar with the Ellipse line. It still slips easily under a cuff, but it feels more casual and more relaxedl. It pairs just as naturally with a leather jacket as it does with tailoring, which is not something you can say about every Ellipse.
This example retains its original padded Patek Philippe alligator strap and matching white gold Ellipse-shaped buckle. The buckle mirrors the case profile beautifully, a small detail that reinforces how considered the design really was. Sapphire crystal completes the package, giving the dial the clarity and protection it deserves.
The ref. 5028G has developed a quiet following among collectors who appreciate the Ellipse but want something slightly off the expected path. It’s the choice for someone who already understands the model’s history and is ready to explore one of its most interesting side roads.
The watch presents in excellent neo-vintage condition with light wear consistent with careful use.
The 18k white gold case retains strong definition with minor surface marks visible under close inspection.
The black dial is clean and well preserved with crisp printing.
The case side shows correct and deep hallmarks.
The hands are original and are well matched to the dial with no corrosion noted.
The sapphire crystal is clear with no significant scratches or chips.
The original padded Patek Philippe alligator strap shows light wear and is paired with the original white gold Ellipse buckle.
The automatic caliber 240 PS is running smoothly and functioning as intended.
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