PATEK PHILIPPE 3970R PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH 18K ROSE

The Patek Philippe 3970 is a superlative, maybe THE superlative perpetual calendar chronograph from any manufacture ever. It is just right in every way, which helps explain why it is a must-have watch in every serious Patek Philippe collection. I dare say that even if you are not a collector, but you have the intent and the means to own a true king of watchdom as a daily watch, the 3970 may be the best choice. The perpetual calendar provides day, date, month and moonphase while the chronograph lets you time events. I don't want to debase the watch by sounding like a stockbroker, but it has until now (with no change in the foreseeable future) also been a fantastic investment - more than tripling in value over the last 8 years.

The 18k rose gold case is in mint plus condition with dimensions of 36.5mm diameter by 13.5mm thick. Domed sapphire crystal. Solid rose gold case back. Pump style chronograph pushers. The stepped lugs are very strong and undiminished.

Dial is very special, with applied rose gold arabic numerals, eggshell white in color, with rose gold feuille hands. The following information is presented on the dial: 3 o'clock subdial shows leap year cycle and 30 minute chronograph totalizer; 6 o'clock subdial shows moonphase and date; 9 o'clock subdial shows constant seconds and 24 hour time. Day and month are displayed in the apertures above the "PATEK PHILIPPE GENEVE" text.

Movement is the manual winding Caliber 27-70Q with 24 jewels, adjusted for hot and cold and in 8 positions, and bearing the Geneva Seal. The chronograph features column wheel construction.

Strap is Patek crocodile with 18k Patek tang style clasp.

This watch will be delivered with original box, setting stylus, original papers and Extract from the Archives. Watch will also be accompanied by the October 25th 2000 Sotheby’s auction catalog, which features this watch.