Watches with stone dials are among the most captivating. You see, there is a true art to crafting these dials, as ensuring they are thin enough to avoid adding unnecessary heft while maintaining durability is a delicate balancing act. Achieving this without cracking the precious stone itself is a tremendous challenge, and as a result, watches with stone dials are often quite fragile. The high failure rates in producing these delicate dials naturally drive up costs, making them inherently expensive. Nevertheless, interest in stone dials has been steadily growing in recent years. Vintage examples are gradually being rediscovered and gaining popularity, while many modern brands are also embracing the craft, incorporating stone dials into their contemporary designs and offerings.
What we have here today is a rare example from one of the most revered names in haute horlogerie: this is the Patek Philippe 3733J ‘Gondolo’, featuring a captivating black onyx dial paired with an eccentric ribbed case and a matching integrated ribbed bracelet in solid 18-carat yellow gold. Patek Philippe, as we all know, has earned its place in the pantheon of watchmaking through an illustrious portfolio of elegant dress watches and legendary sport models alike. Yet, with such an enduring spotlight on icons like the Calatrava, Nautilus, or the perpetual calendar chronographs, many of the brand’s more esoteric, design-forward creations have quietly flown under the radar, overlooked by the masses, but deeply coveted by seasoned collectors who appreciate Patek’s more avant-garde and artistic ventures. The 3733J is one of those hidden gems, and let me tell you why it deserves your attention.
Starting with its uniquely proportioned 29mm x 33mm case, the 3733J sets itself apart with a striking architectural presence. Entirely crafted from 18-carat yellow gold, the watch showcases a unique horizontally ribbed pattern that runs across the bezel and flows seamlessly into its integrated bracelet, creating a continuous visual rhythm that feels both sculptural and refined. Encased within this golden structure is a captivating onyx dial: deep, mysterious, and completely unadorned save for a set of case-matching dauphine hands. The deliberate omission of hour markers leaves a generous expanse of negative space, allowing the jet-black stone to take centre stage. It’s a masterstroke in contrast: the dark, inky depth of the dial serves to amplify the warm radiance of the gold case and bracelet surrounding it.
Frankly, words and photographs hardly do it justice. There’s a level of visual opulence and quiet sublimity here that can only be truly appreciated on the wrist, where the interplay of light and texture brings the entire composition to life. In person, the visuals are nothing short of breathtaking. This is no longer just a timepiece; it is, unequivocally, an objet d’art.
Powering the 3733J from within is Patek Philippe’s manual-winding Cal. 215, a compact 18-jewel movement commonly found in the Maison’s Gondolo collection. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the Cal. 215 offers a power reserve of up to 44 hours when fully wound. It’s a simple yet well-executed movement that suits the refined nature of the watch.
In a world where many continue to chase after icons and well-known references, there remains a special place for uncommon pieces like this 3733. Quietly existing outside the spotlight, despite its bold yellow gold construction, it feels like something meant for a discerning collector who values not just heritage, but subtlety, rarity, and taste. I must also say, there is something undeniably charming about wearing an ornate 18-carat yellow gold Patek Philippe paired with a deep black onyx dial. It is not a combination you often hear about, let alone see in person. Yet the result is a pairing that feels timeless and effortlessly elegant. Black and gold have long stood as a symbol of enduring style, and here it is expressed with a level of artisanal refinement that only a watchmaking Maison like Patek Philippe can deliver.
Ultimately, with rare and exceptional watches like this, words can only go so far. Its true allure lies in the experience of seeing it in person. So, I will simply let the pictures speak for themselves.
