Patek Philippe

The history of the Patek Philippe Perpetual Chronograph wristwatch is one of the many reasons which had led Patek Philippe in becoming one of the most recognizable horological name in the world of watchmaking. As the first brand to have created a perpetual calendar chronograph movement for wristwatch during the difficult times of WWII, the reference 1518 had immediately proven it’s great success which captivated the hearts of many collectors till today. The lineage of the Perpetual Calendar Chronograph movements for Patek Philippe had continued today, from the original reference 1518 (1941-1954), 2499 (1950-1985), 3970 (1985-2004), 5970 (2004-2010) and the currently produced model reference 5270, with each reference recognized as the most beautiful classic watch of all time.

The present watch in stunning condition is a 3970 with an uncommon case that has replaced the traditional lugs with a gorgeous all-original integral bracelet. The importance of the 3970 begins with its movement as it houses the first non-Valjoux-based movement but instead took on the application of a heavily modified Lemania 2310 movement that uses the same base construction. Among all known 3970s on the market, collectors have identified 4 series of the reference made that is excluding the special release. The present watch belonging to the third series production can be classified by screw-back cases, pointed baton indexes, and baton hands instead of the leaf hand. Additionally, the dial is bright silver and the printing is heavier, making it a more vibrant piece.

As the value for vintage timepieces has seen an exponential increase over the past 5 years, the reference 3970 is undoubtingly a piece which many would consider as a grail in their collection.