Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, Jun 01, 2024

LOT 268

PATEK PHILIPPE, REF. 3970E, 18K PINK GOLD

HKD 600,000 - 900,000

EUR 72,000 - 108,000 / CHF 70,000 - 106,000 / USD 77,000 - 116,000

Sold: HKD 950,000

An a very fine and very rare, complicated, manual wind 18K pink gold perpetual calendar, chronograph wristwatch with silvered dial and moon phase.


Grading System
Grade:
Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 1-01

As new

HANDS Original

Brand Patek Philippe

Reference 3970E

Year sold on 27th Nov, 1995

Movement No. 3045178

Case No. 2968305

Bracelet 18K pink gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp

Caliber CH 27’ 70Q, 24 Jewels

Signature 37mm.

Accessories PP fitted box, original certificate dated 27 Nov 1995, instructions booklet with PP brown leather folder, push pin, 18K pink gold solid case back, PP tag, PP brown paper delivery box

Notes

The reference 3970 has become a modern classic following the footsteps of the brand’s f lagship complication models with perpetual calendar, chronograph, and moon phase - Ref. 1518 (1941-1952), Ref. 2499 & 2499/100 (1951-1986). In 1986, Patek Philippe made a bold choice to retire its revered Ref. 2499 after over 30 years of success.

The Ref. 3970 showcased what the brand does best: Updating to a contemporary design while staying true to its refined aesthetics. The timing of the introduction of this new reference coincided with the robust global economy in the late 1980s, quickly making it a best-seller and reaching an iconic status in its own right.

This presented 3970 was purchased new at the Cortina Watch in Singapore in Nov 1995, complete with all its accessories, the watch is fitted with the rare 18K pink gold case and silver dial as confirmed on the certificate of origin. It has only been worn on a few occasions, has been kept in fantastic condition still displaying clear bevels on the lugs, and 2 crisp gold hallmarks are stamped on the outer case back, a testament to its overall impressive condition.

Provenance

Property of an Asian collector