Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 3970

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 3970 2nd Series Box and Papers Like New 18k YG

Tasked with creating the successor to the iconic ref. 2499, Philippe Stern created the legendary Patek Philippe ref. 3970, which has now gone on to become one of Patek Philippe's most sough-after vintage references. Released in 1986, a year after the ref. 2499 was discontinued, the ref. 3970 includes some design choices that are indicative of the period during which it was created. In the '80s, dress watches were getting smaller, and as such, Stern decided to take the ref. 2499's 37.5mm case and reduce it to 36mm for the ref. 3970. This served to broaden the piece's appeal and give it a classier aesthetic. The ref. 3970’s construction also builds upon this classy design with a concave bezel and downturned fluted lugs that help to slim the case's profile on the wrist and maintain its elegant look and feel. Equipped with the same movement that was in the ref. 2499, the Lemania cal. 2310, Patek Philippe’s artisans have heavily modified it to be just as finely finished as any other Patek movement. Carrying a lot of history itself, the Lemania cal. 2310 is often regarded as one of the most legendary movements to have ever existed, with its inception dating back to a joint project between Lemania and Omega in the 40's. With its visual overhaul, Patek decided to rebrand their refinished Lemania 2310 as the cal. CH 27-70, a movement that Patek collectors hold in particularly high regard, much like the ref. 3970 that it is found within. Brand : Patek Philippe Dimensions : 36mm Model : Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Movement : Manual-wind cal. CH 27-70 Reference : 3970 (2nd Series) Bracelet : Leather strap Year : 1990 Condition : Like-New Material : 18kt yellow gold Included : Watch, box, papers, booklets, pusher, and display caseback Dial Color : Silver THE DIAL Presenting as a Second Series variation on account of its “opaline Silver” dial with feuille hands and squared baton hour markers. The calendar disks also feature the ‘typewriter’ font which matches the dial. One notable feature of the second series dial is the dot present between the 31 and 1 numerals in day of the month subdial. THE CONSTRUCTION Offered in like-new condition, this example's 18kt yellow gold construction is free from practically all signs of wear, with its domed bezel, lugs, and midcase all as they were the day the watch was sold. TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.