Patek Philippe

Reference 3970E “Fourth Series” | A white gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, leap year and 24 hour indication, Made in 2001

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

1,600,000 - 4,000,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

PROPERTY OF AN IMPORTANT COLLECTOR

Patek Philippe

Reference 3970E “Fourth Series”

A white gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, leap year and 24 hour indication, Made in 2001

Dial: black

Calibre: cal. 27-70 Q mechanical, 24 jewels

Movement number: 3’046’322

Case: 18k white gold, screw down sapphire crystal display back

Case number: 4’125’952

Closure: black Patek Philippe alligator strap and 18k white gold buckle

Size: 36 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch in 2001 and its subsequent sale on September 4th, 2001, additional case back, setting pin, product literature, instruction manual and presentation box

The 3970 is perhaps the fastest growing segment of the complicated Patek Philippe market. Once regarded as the undervalued perpetual calendar chronograph, especially compared to the references 2499 and 5970 which flanked its production period, in recent years the 3970 has skyrocketed into prominence. Collectors have finally begun to appreciate its “goldilocks” case size of 36 mm, which combined with the ergonomic case design allows it to wear supremely well on the wrist. Its many dial variations and various series also make it a joy to collect.

Production spanned several decades and can be briefly summarised:

1986-1988: the first series of the 3970 featured a solid snap-on case back.

1987-1990: the second series introduced the reference 3970E, which featured an updated solid screw-down case back, with the suffix indicating étanche, or waterproof.

1989-1995: the third series 3970 was delivered with two casebacks: one plain and one with a sapphire display back. The hands were changed from leaf style to baton style.

1994-2004: the fourth and last series was similar to the third series but with a new serial number range and several design improvements, most obvious is the colour of the moonphase which changed from gilt to silvered.

百達翡麗型號3970 “第四代”

白金萬年曆計時腕錶，備月相、閏年及24小時顯示，2001年製

附帶證書、後補資料庫精粹、備用錶背蓋、調校筆、腕錶文獻、説明書及盒子

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."