Patek Philippe

Reference 3939 | A platinum minute repeating tourbillon wristwatch with enamel dial, Made in 1999

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

2,000,000 - 4,000,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe

Reference 3939

A platinum minute repeating tourbillon wristwatch with enamel dial, Made in 1999

Dial: enamel

Calibre: cal. RTO 27 PS mechanical, 28 jewels

Movement number: 1'903'027

Case: platinum, snap on sapphire crystal display back

Case number: 2'972'544

Closure: black Patek Philippe alligator strap and platinum campaign buckle

Size: 33 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, additional case back, product literature, instruction manual and presentation box. Furthermore delivered with Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1999 and its subsequent sale on 22 February 2000

The reference 3939 has been the connoisseur’s choice ever since its launch. Indeed, the combination of a minute repeater and tourbillon already propels this watch into the highest levels of haute horology, but to house both powerhouse complications within an understated and compact 33 mm case adds another dimension to this feat. For good measure, Patek Philippe also fitted this watch with an enamel dial, a material reserved for only a select few references which have all since become collector’s favourites, such as the 2526.

However, despite its tour-de-force complications package and beautiful aesthetic, the reference remained undervalued for many years as the trends at the time favoured larger case sizes. The reference also saw very low production throughout its run from 1993 to 2009 due to the complication, with no more than 200 total pieces ever made, averaging 12 per year. Consequently, very few examples come to market every year. As collectors today return to favouring more modest case sizes, the 3939 has finally begun to receive the attention it has always deserved, with all of the above factors further fuelling its popularity. The watch has been retained in exceptional condition and complete with all accessories.

Sotheby’s Geneva, Important Watches; 13 November 2011, lot 267

百達翡麗型號3939

鉑金三問陀飛輪腕錶，備琺瑯錶盤，1999年製

附帶證書、備用錶背蓋、腕錶文獻、説明書、盒子及後補資料庫精粹

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."