18ct yellow gold Patek Philippe ref. 3878 'Squelette' automatic wristwatch. Made 1983

The tradition of skeletonising Patek Philippe movement's goes back to the 1860s when Patek produced a small series of skeleton pocket watches. These pieces were often made for exhibitions and display purposes so that Patek Philippe could showcase their high degree of finish. It was not until the late 1970s that skeleton pocket watches were added back into the line with references such as the 894. Every possible part of the gold bridges was fully engraved by hand. The 18k case held the structure in place and only the setting mechanism, mainspring, and parts of the escapement were made of steel. The mastery of the art of engraving is shown in full force within these miniature works of art.