Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, May 31, 2025

LOT 348

PATEK PHILIPPE, REF. 3970E, PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH, 18K YELLOW GOLD

HKD 800,000 - 1,600,000

EUR 92,000 - 184,000 / CHF 86,000 - 172,000 / USD 104,000 - 206,000

An extremely rare, historically important, manual winding, 18K yellow gold perpetual calendar wristwatch with chronograph 2 casebacks (solid caseback and sapphire caseback).


Grading System
Grade:
Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Brand Patek Philippe

Model Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

Reference 3970E

Year circa April 1988

Movement No. 875130

Case No. 2831374

Bracelet strap with PP 18K yellow gold buckle

Diameter Ø 36mm.

Caliber CH27’70, 24 jewels

Weight 76gr. (approx.)

Signature dial, case and movement

Accessories certificate marked with Duplicata, push pin, sapphire crystal caseback

Notes

We are honored to present this exceptional Patek Philippe 3970E perpetual calendar chronograph, a
horological masterpiece preserved for over three decades by a discerning Hong Kong-based collector.
Produced circa April 1988, this represents a very early example of the coveted second series (1986-1991). Bearing
the movement number 875130 and case number 2831374, this 3970E is definitively authenticated as one of the
earliest iterations of this iconic reference’s second series.

The watch presents in remarkable condition, a testament to its meticulous preservation. The crisp case maintains
its sharp, well-defined angles Most captivating is the original dial, which has gracefully evolved into a beautiful
vintage cream tone, adding warmth and character that only decades of careful ownership can bestow.

This particular example offers the collector’s advantage of dual casebacks - both the elegant sapphire crystal
display back revealing the intricate movement within, and the original solid caseback. The hallmarks stamped
on both the inner and outer surfaces of the caseback remain exceptionally crisp and deep.