998Σ︎
Patek Philippe
Ref. 3970E, Fourth Series
A well-preserved, highly collectible and fresh-to-the-market platinum perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with semi-glossy black dial with diamond-set indexes, moon phases, 24-hour, leap year indication, Certificate of Origin and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
- Fresh-to-the-market
- Crisp hallmarks at the side of the lugs
- Delivered with certificate and Extract from the Archives
Introduced in 1986, the ref. 3970 succeeded the long-standing ref. 2499, marking a new chapter in Patek Philippe’s lineage of perpetual calendar chronographs. This model was powered by the upgraded Lemania-based caliber CH 27-70 Q, replacing the Valjoux-derived movement found in its predecessor. While preserving the family’s timeless aesthetic, the ref. 3970 featured a more contemporary profile, reduced to 36mm in diameter. Produced for nearly two decades across four series and in all four precious metals—yellow, pink, and white gold, as well as platinum—approximately 4,000 examples were made in total.
The present ref. 3970E in platinum belongs to the fourth series, placing it among the first examples produced as the movement number of this series starts from 3’045’XXX. This iteration is notable for its semi-glossy black dial with chaton-set diamond hour markers, adding a luxurious twist to the classic design. In contrast to the more prevalent silvered opaline dials, this configuration imparts visual depth and elegance. The hallmarks are stamped on the sides of the lugs, a detail highly valued by collectors of the ref. 3970.
Offered in well-preserved condition and accompanied by the presentation box and original Certificate of Origin, the accompanying Extract of the Archives also confirms the date code (PESR – March 1996) on the certificate, ensuring its originality. This fresh-to-the-market timepiece is an ideal acquisition for those who appreciate Patek Philippe’s horological excellence with a touch of opulence.
Patek Philippe
Swiss | 1839Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.