Perhaps one of, if not quite simply “the perfect watch”, the 3940 was introduced back in 1985 and developed almost immediate popularity, and a reputation of being the automatic perpetual calendar to sits beautifully on one’s wrist, and slip under a cuff with such poise that no one would notice it. Often referred to as the first highly complicated watch in regular production from the brand, the 3940 (as well as the 3970 - Perpetual Calendar Chronograph) was the brain-child of the former head of Patek Philippe, Mr Philippe Stern and remains the watch often seen on his wrist to this day. As mentioned, the 3940 was launched in 1985 and it was done to replace the reference 3450. Given its early introduction, and relatively “late” discontinuation in 2007, it is in fact one of Patek Philippe’s longest production models. Production ceased in 2007, making this watch one of the final 3940’s to leave the factory. Available in a variety of different metals and dial configurations, and generally divided into three series, in which the hour markers and sub dials changed throughout, there are a vast number of watch configurations available when looking at Reference 3940. Categorised as a third series example, there are a few differences to the earlier models. Aside from its deployante clasp and general year of production, the Swiss sigma at the bottom of the dial falls in line with the outer minute track, a feature synonymous with all third series 3940’s.

Condition Report:

Having just returned from service by our manufacturer-trained watchmaker at Watches London, this utterly gorgeous example is quite the set. Paired with its original Patek Philippe winding box and an Extract from the Archives (stating the watch’s sale in October 2005), the case, dial, hands and clasp of the watch remain untouched. Displaying the occasional sign of wear around the perimeter, which has been photographed to showcase, the watch is in truly lovely condition. 

One notable feature of this third series example, and an aesthetic which the wearer is immediately drawn towards is the two-tone colouring of the 24-hour sub-dial and 9 o’clock. Many have in fact identified this as patina, whereas others believe that it was applied by Patek Philippe in production. However, popular and reliable sources suggest that the two-tone colouring was applied intentionally as part of the Stern Creations dial making process. The 'night time' half of this sub-dial was varnished a shade darker than the 'day time' half. Over time, the darker half of the varnish has aged more aggressively on some examples, making the colour appear much darker than originally intended. A feature which is very prominent on this very example.

Alongside its winding box and Extract from the Archives, the set is complete with its corrector-stylus (also finished in rose gold) as well as an optional solid rose gold case back if the aesthetic is preferred to the currently-fitted sapphire case back displaying the watch’s calibre 240 Q movement. Offered with a one year Watches London warranty on the movement of the watch, and a lifetime guarantee of authenticity, these increasingly-popular perpetual calendars are only expected to become even more collectable than they are today.

• Year: 2005

• Reference Number: 3940R

• Material: Rose Gold

• Size: 36mm

• Movement: Automatic Calibre 240 Q

• Waterproof: 25m

• Box Information: Original Box

• Extras: Extract from the Archives

• Strap: Dark Red Alligator Leather Strap