Our remarks

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 3940P-013, 950 Platinum, Black Roman Dial, 2006, Unworn

The reference 3940 is one of the iconic pieces of modern Patek Philippe. It was introduced in 1985 and stayed in the collection for more than twenty years, which made it one of the longest-running references in the history of the manufacture. Philippe Stern, then head of Patek Philippe, chose it as his own everyday watch, and that says a lot about how the house saw it. This example combines the rarest case material with a dial execution you will very rarely encounter, and it has never been worn.

The 36 mm case is made of 950 platinum. Only a small part of the 3940 production was cased in platinum, and the platinum versions were only ever delivered with a solid caseback, a detail that sets them apart from the gold models. The case is slim and elegant, and the weight of the platinum gives it a quiet, very reassuring presence on the wrist.

The black dial with Roman numerals is what makes this watch truly special. Most 3940s were made with light dials and baton markers, so a black Roman dial in platinum is a very rare sight. The perpetual calendar is arranged in three subdials: the day and the 24-hour indicator at 9 o'clock, the month and the leap year cycle at 3 o'clock, and the date together with the moon phase at 6 o'clock. Everything stays perfectly balanced and easy to read.

Inside works the caliber 240 Q, Patek Philippe's first perpetual calendar movement with a micro-rotor in 22 karat gold. Because the rotor sits within the movement, the watch stays remarkably thin. The movement carries the Geneva Seal and knows the different lengths of the months as well as the leap years.

It is worn on a black alligator strap with a 950 platinum Patek Philippe folding clasp.

The watch dates from 2006, one of the last years of production, and is unworn now for 20 years!

It comes as a full set with red turning box, original papers, pin, hang tag, describtion booklet and a leather carry-on bag.

"An unworn platinum 3940 with a black Roman dial, and one of the finest perpetual calendars Patek Philippe has ever made. This is exactly the mix that discerning Patek collectors are dreaming of and shall not miss!"