Patek Philippe

• cal. 240 Q automatic nickel lever movement, stamped with the seal of Geneva, 27 jewels, Gyromax balance, 22k gold micro-rotor • silvered dial, applied baton indexes, 3 subsidiary dials for day with 24-hour indication, moon phases with date, month with leap year • 18k yellow gold case, snap on case back • case, dial, and movement signed

Movement running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion and expense. Case in fair condition with scuffing and some light scratches consistent with daily use. The case back with light scratches. Dial in very good condition with some light patina. Movement in very good condition. The present lot contains endangered species which is subject to restrictions upon international export. Accordingly, the strap for this item will be removed prior to shipment outside the United States.
"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 an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on 15 September 1989. Also with a presentation box.

Production of Ref. 3940 began in 1986 as the successor to Ref. 3448 and Ref. 3450. Production continued for over 20 years, with only some subtle changes made to the dial on later series. The design of the Ref. 3940 is such a classic that when it was replaced in 2007 with the Ref. 5140, the differences between the two models were nearly imperceptible. 

An example of Ref. 3940 is illustrated in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Second Edition, pp. 292-293.