PATEK PHILIPPE | REF 3970EJYELLOW GOLD PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH MOON PHASES, 24-HOUR AND LEAP-YEAR INDICATIONMADE IN 1994

Dial: silvered Calibre: cal. 27-70 manual winding, 24 jewels Movement number: 3'045'133 Case: 18k yellow gold Case number: 2'945'294 Closure: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle Dimensions: 36mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, 18k yellow gold solid case back, setting pin, presentation case and Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on January 25th, 1996

MVT: running at the time of cataloguing. The chronograph is functioning and the date advancing. CASE: Case has been polished showing still very light fluting to the lugs. Gold hallmarks are still visible on the outside at 11 and 4 o'clock. Otherwise in good condition with light scuffs and scratches. DIAL: in very good condition overall. There are very minor blemishes visible on the hands and indexes. The watch has not been tested to determine the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion.
"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."

Reference 3970 along with its predecessors, the 2499 and 1518, hold a significant position in the eyes of Patek Philippe collectors today. It was discontinued and replaced by reference 5970 in 2004.  The present watch is complete with all accessories and retains its fluting to the lugs and gold hallmarks stamped to the outside of the lugs.