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Patek Philippe Ref. 3940

The 1980s were a time of turmoil for the Swiss watch industry. Although an answer to the emerging cheap quartz technology was found in an emphasis on high-end watchmaking, luxury and craftsmanship, the war was far from won.

Patek Philippe had already launched the Nautilus as its luxury steel sports watch in the decade before. Now, it was time to flex its haute horology muscles once more, to show the world that Patek Philippe was sticking to its heritage. In 1985 the fabled house presented a brand new perpetual calendar; the Ref. 3940.

The significance of this watch is not to be underestimated. It set the tone for what Patek Philippe was going to be in this new era. No wonder then, that these models have become highly sought-after and desirable.

History aside, the watch is already extremely desirable in its own right. From a technical perspective, Patek managed to fit an automatic perpetual calendar in a 36mm wrist watch measuring only 8mm in height. They did so by opting for a 22k gold micro-rotor to provide the required winding.

The platinum case is home to an opaline Sigma dial that is a masterclass in design. It is packed with a massive amount of information, yet remains understated, balanced and simple.

Different series have been produced of the Ref. 3940, with small variations between them. Our example is a so-called late second series specimen, with hallmarks in the case flank and a cross-hair in the sub dial at three o’clock.

This stunning and significant Patek Philippe Ref. 3940 comes complete with the original box, papers and tag. The box doubles as a winder, keeping your perpetual calendar right up to date.

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Details
Brand Patek Philippe
Diameter 36 mm
Model Perpetual Calendar
Bracelet/strap: Leather
Reference 3940
Buckle/clasp Original platinum buckle
Year of production (circa) 1990s
Lug Width 18 mm
Material Platinum
Set Content Original box & papers
Crystal Sapphire
Warranty 2 year (AWCo)
Dial color Silver
Movement Automatic
Backstory

Patek Philippe has devoted itself to the manufacture of complicated watch movements from the get go. In 1889, the Swiss powerhouse was the first to patent a perpetual calendar pocket watch mechanism. Then in 1902, a patent was filed for the first double chronograph. In 1923, they introduced the first split-second chronograph wristwatch. The first perpetual calendar wristwatch would follow in 1925.

And if you are this good at something, it only makes sense you try and push it to the max. In 1989, Patek showcased its Caliber 89. A whopping 33 complications crammed into a 1.1kg movement with 24 hands. Sensibly, they opted for the pocket watch form-factor, as this beast would not fit on even the biggest of wrists. It would be twenty-seven years before Vacheron Constantin took over the record of the most complicated watch movement.

Patek Philippe is famous for its world time calibers as well as its perpetual calendar chronographs. An example of their first iteration of the latter, the Ref. 1518 from 1941, was sold at auction in 2017 for an eye-watering $11.14 million.

Complicated Pateks are grail watches for many fanatical aficionados. Whether in vintage or modern guise, these are some of the finest examples of watchmaking you will find. A combination of mechanical magic, finishing artistry and timeless design mesmerize even the most seasoned of collectors.

Shipping

At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.

We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.

Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.

Brand

Patek Philippe

Model

Reference

3940

Year of production (circa)

1990s

Material

Platinum

Crystal

Sapphire

Dial color

Silver

Movement

Automatic

Diameter

36 mm

Bracelet/strap:

Leather

Buckle/clasp

Original platinum buckle

Lug Width

18 mm

Set Content

Original box & papers