Patek Philippe

Reference 3940, 3rd Series | A platinum perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases, 24 hours and leap year indication, Circa 1998

Auction Closed

October 21, 07:40 AM GMT

Estimate

700,000 - 900,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe

Reference 3940, 3rd Series

A platinum perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases, 24 hours and leap year indication, Circa 1998

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 240 automatic, 27 jewels

Movement number: 3'124'758

Case: platinum, snap on case back

Case number: 4'087'078

Closure: black Patek Philippe alligator strap and platinum folding clasp

Size: 36 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe setting pin and presentation box

While many watch enthusiasts acknowledge Patek Philippe's mastery in creating repeating timepieces, its perpetual calendar stands out as a key factor behind the brand's success and remains a significant complication in many of its iconic collections today. The first perpetual calendar wristwatch with an automatic movement, the legendary reference 3448, was produced from 1962 to 1981 and has demonstrated its enduring appeal through numerous record-breaking auction results. The reference 3940, introduced later, succeeded this iconic model.

Although the reference 3940 may not hold the title of the world's first automatic perpetual calendar, it boasts a remarkable movement. Driven by the ultra-thin perpetual calendar caliber 240, which features a micro-rotor, this movement represents a triumph in micro-engineering. It paved the way for the creation of other exceptional timepieces, such as the Patek Philippe Nautilus Reference 5740, and also served as the foundation for movements used in minute repeaters. The present platinum example is from the third series, with a solid case back and hallmarks stamped behind the lugs.

百達翡麗型號3940 第三代

鉑金萬年曆腕錶，備月相、24小時及閏年顯示，約1998

附帶調校筆及盒子

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."