The Patek Philippe reference 3940 is undeniably one of the most iconic self-winding perpetual calendar launched in 1985, produced in four metals: yellow, pink, white gold and platinum, the reference was cased predominantly in yellow gold and remained in production until 2007. Debuted as a successor for the ref. 3450 with the all-new ultra-thin micro-rotor, the reference was first produced for famed retailer Chronometrie Beyer in Zürich in a limited edition of 25 pieces to celebrate its 225th anniversary, each individually numbered bearing the Beyer signature on the dial. Sought after by collectors, the reference then followed three series with nuances during each evolution.

The present ref. 3940 bearing a movement number 770’610 belongs to the first series with a production of no more than 1300 pieces. These early specimens featured flat, sunken subsidiary dials displaying 24-hour indicator as well as the leap year indicator, later models will have a cross dividing the four sectors of the leap year. Fresh-to-the-market and delivered with the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming its date of manufacture and sale date in the Summer of 1987, the present specimen is preserved in an excellent condition. With subsidiary dials that have developed an attractive light patina that further elevated its vintage charm that will sure please any collector of iconic wristwatches.