Patek Philippe

Reference 3970E, 2nd and 3rd Transitional Series | A yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, 24 hours and leap year indication, Circa 1991

Session begins in

April 24, 06:00 AM GMT

Estimate

800,000 - 1,500,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe

Reference 3970E, 2nd and 3rd Transitional Series

A yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, 24 hours and leap year indication, Circa 1991

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 27-70 Q mechanical, 24 jewels

Movement number: 875’958

Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down sapphire crystal display back

Case number: 2’873’815

Closure: brown Patek Philippe alligator strap and 18k yellow gold buckle

Size: 36 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, additional case back, setting pin, instruction manual, product literature and presentation box

First introduced in 1986, reference 3970 enjoyed a production run until 2004, when the reference was discontinued. During its reign, the 3970 underwent three major transformations. The first generation were fitted with a snap solid back, the second with a sapphire crystal case back, named 3971. Patek Philippe finally created the third generation, 3970E, where étanche meant waterproof.

The present 3970 is powered by a movement known to be a 2nd series due to its number, but it is fitted with a dial that is known as a 3rd series dial. The movement number is from the very last year of production of the 2nd series and the dial is a 3rd series dial due to the positioning of the 1st and 31st date indicators.

A complete full set with original certificate, additional case back, setting pin and product literature, can be said to be one of the most beautiful watches ever manufactured by Patek Philippe. The watch is in extremely well preserved condition with sharp hallmarks to the side of the lugs. The lugs themselves with very good proportions and very good fluting and the watch still retains its original accessories.

百達翡麗型號3970E 第二至第三代過渡型

黃金萬年曆計時腕錶，備月相、24小時及閏年顯示，約1991年製

附帶證書、備用錶背蓋、調校筆、説明書、腕錶文獻及盒子

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"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."