Not every timepiece from the world’s greatest watchmaker fits neatly into the mold of an overarching theme or collection. 

While we love a simple Calatrava, a sporty Aquanaut, or a complicated perpetual calendar as much as the next guy, the oddball, more overlooked and usually limited-production, shaped watches made by the maison in second half of the 20th century are often some of the most innovative and charming in the brand’s oeuvre.

Take this particular piece for example. Dating to circa the 1970s, this Reference 3580A 'UFO' features a fantastic stainless steel case with hidden 'T'-lugs, an acrylic crystal, and Patek's Calibre I-350 automatic winding movement - operated by using the 'back-crown.' Last but not least, the prototypical sunburst blue dial as found in most Ellipse models of this era, has taken on a stunning and even tropical patina, reminiscent of an exploded supernova. 

See it?

Neat right?

Steel Pateks are rare. Uncommon at the very least; and with a speculated 500 examples of this Reference ever having been produced, this piece is beautiful, scarce, and a true piece of art with that mesmerizing patina - and there's no telling if and when one of these in any condition will surface again.