Patek Philippe - Phillips & Blackbird: SPORTS Hong Kong Sunday, May 26, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Patek Philippe
    Year: 1989
    Reference No: 3971E
    Movement No: 875’329
    Case No: 2’851’213
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, CH27-70Q, 24 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Alligator
    Clasp/Buckle: Patek Philippe 18K yellow gold buckle
    Dimensions: 36 mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: With Certificate of Origin dated March 10, 1989 by Gübelin, Patek Philippe wooden presentation box, setting pin, product literature and outer packaging. Further delivered with Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1989 and date of sale on April 17, 1989

  • Catalogue Essay

    Introduced in 1986 together with its sister model reference 3970, the reference 3971 represents a rare chance to see the handiwork of Patek Philippe, through the transparent caseback, having succeeded the legendary reference 2499 that features a solid case back. Initially offered with a snap on back, it was later revised to a screw down version to improve water resistance, such as the example offered here. Preserved in excellent overall condition, the case has clearly visible hallmarks on 3 lugs and the rarely seen Patek Philippe case marker stamp - number 28 in the key Poincon de Maitre - punched on the lower left lug.

    The left side of the case has developed a highly attractive patina which shows the level of preservation for this particular example. The dial is also in immaculate condition and features the feuille hands and rectangular markers from the earlier series of the reference 3970. With less than 300 pieces made of the reference 3971E, the reference is even more of a collectors item when accompanied by the original certificate, presentation box, and fresh to the auction market, such as the watch offered here.

  • Artist Biography

    Patek Philippe

    Swiss • 1839

    Since 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.

    View More Works

Σ867

Ref. 3971E
A fine and very rare yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, 24 hours, leap year indicator, transparent sapphire case back, original certificate, setting pin and presentation box

1989
36 mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$470,000 - 700,000 
€54,100-80,600
$60,000-90,000

Sold for HK$687,500

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
thomasperazzi@phillips.com
+852 2318 2001
 

Phillips & Blackbird: SPORTS

Hong Kong Auction 27 May 2019