Patek Philippe

• cal. 315SC automatic nickel lever movement, stamped with the seal of Geneva, 30 jewels, mono-metallic Gyromax balance, 22k yellow gold rotor • silvered dial, with Egyptian hieroglyph hour markers, yellow gold feuille hands, center seconds, aperture for date at 3 o'clock • 18k yellow gold case, down-turned lugs, solid screw down case back • case, dial, and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle

Movement running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Appears to have no wear. The case is in excellent condition with the exception of one minor scratch on the case back. Dial and movement in fantastic condition. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please see 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."

Accompanied by the original tie tag, product literature, coffin box with outer cardboard box and an Extract from the Archives confirming hieroglyph hour markers and date of sale on 25 November 2002.

These two watches are the only known examples of the 3998J with hieroglyphic detailed dials. The dials add an entirely unique appearance to this well-known reference which is usually found with applied baton numerals and a "perlé" outer minute track.

Reference 3998 was launched in 1989 and production ceased in 2005, it was the first automatic water-resistant "Calatrava" wristwatch with date offered by Patek Philippe.