Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 3970E

Patek Philippe Ref. 3970E A very fine and rare yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, leap year and 24-hour indication, Certificate of Origin, additional solid caseback and presentation box

Manufacturer : Patek Philippe Year : Circa 1991 Reference No : 3970E Movement No : 875’912 Case No : 2’873’887 Material : 18K yellow gold Calibre : Manual, cal. CH27-70 Q, 24 jewels Bracelet/Strap : Leather Clasp/Buckle : 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle Dimensions : 36mm diameter Signed : Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories : Accompanied by Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin dated 9 September 1991, additional solid caseback, extra spring bars, instruction manual, product literature, leather folio, fitted presentation box and outer packaging When Patek Philippe unveiled the 36mm ref. 3970 in 1986, it succeeded the long-running ref. 2499 with an upgraded Lemania-based movement. While adopting similar aesthetics, the ref. 3970 spanned four series over 19 years, with approximately 4,000 examples produced across all metals. The second series (1987 – 1990) features a solid screw down caseback “E – Etanche”, feuille hands, hallmarks on the side on the lugs, rectangular indexes, and the font within the day and date windows matches that of the subdials, with subtle flourishes and serifs. Produced in all four case materials with an estimated 450 examples produced across all metals. The present yellow gold ref. 3970 hails from the second series, bearing the 875’XXX movement number. Crisp hallmarks adorn each side of the lugs, with an additional solid caseback. Preserved in excellent condition with its Certificate of Origin and presentation box, the present ref. 3970 is a prized timepiece for collectors who appreciates the horological excellence of Patek Philippe that defined the perpetual calendar chronograph.