Patek Philippe

• cal. RTO 27 PS manual winding nickel lever movement, 28 jewels, one-minute tourbillon carriage, Gyromax balance, minute repeating on two gongs • white enamel dial, applied Breguet numerals, subsidiary dial for constant seconds • platinum case, minute repeating slide to the band, sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • with a platinum Patek Philippe buckle

Manual winding movement running and minute repeating function in working order while cataloguing, however the watch has not been tested for accuracy of time keeping and a service might be needed at buyer's expense. Enamel dial is intact with no cracks or scratches but minor faint yellow spots under 10X loupe close examination, however not noticeable with naked eyes. Case and buckle with very minor surface scratches from light wear only. Overall appears in very good condition. Rare & Collectable! **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species, please refer to important notices for further information**.
"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.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

With a Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, instruction manual, C.O.S.C. certificate, an interchangeable platinum solid case back and a presentation box with outer packaging.

The Ref. 3939 was first launched in 1993 and discontinued in 2011.  It is considered one of the most elegant and subtle of the Patek Philippe grand complication timepieces.  The movement, caliber RTO 27 PS consists of 336 miniscule parts, incorporates two of the most coveted complications, the minute repeater and the tourbillon.  The unparalleled resonance and exquisite tone of the minute repeating chime undoubtedly appeal to the most discerning collector.  Furthermore, the gravity-defying tourbillon admired through the sapphire crystal case back, allows the watch to achieve chronometer-like accuracy.  For technical reasons, Patek Philippe chose to conceal the tourbillon, rather than revealing it through an aperture on the dial-side.  If exposed to ultraviolet light or daylight, the long-term accuracy and longevity of this delicately lubricated device would be compromised.  Despite the contemporary trend for larger dials, measuring 33 mm, the ref. 3939 features an enamel dial with Breguet numerals, is a perfect modern example of Patek Philippe’s timeless sophisticated technical achievement.  

The Ref. 3939 in yellow gold sold for a staggering price in our Hong Kong salesroom in October 2011, fetching 4,220,000 Hong Kong dollars.  A unique stainless steel version with black dial went for an even higher price of 1,400,000 Euros in 2011 Only Watch sale.