169 Patek Philippe Extremely Rare and Attractive Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Wristwatch in Yellow Gold Reference 3971, With Moon Phases and Extract from Archives

Estimate: € 50,000 –⁠ 100,000

Sold € 89,700

Model: Quantieme Perpetuel Chronograph
Reference: 3971E
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1990
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 2770Q
Case N°: 2856574
Movement N°: 875586
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

Constantly in production until the present day, this dynasty of chronograph with perpetual calendar and moon phases was born in 1941 with the legendary 1518 replaced only a few years later by the equally iconic 2499 (in 1950). The 3970 and 3971 were introduced in 1986, and distinguished them from the previous model by the Lemania movement instead of Valjoux and the size that fell to 36 mm in diameter. When Patek Philippe first launched this new series of watches the ref. 3970 was the model bearing a metallic back, while ref. 3971 was equipped with a sapphire back. Very soon, the reference number of this model was standardized to ref. 3970 so very few examples of the present watch bear Ref. 3971. The yellow-gold case of the lot offered here is exceptional, equipped with a very elegant argentè dial with applied baton numerals and completed by two windows for day and month are positioned slightly above the signature while the date surrounds the sundial with the fascinating moon phases display. An icon and a piece of history is offered here for true lovers and enthusiasts. Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1990 and its subsequent sale on 22nd July 1990.