The 3940 is a highly complicated perpetual calendar watch that was created during the Quartz Crisis. It has endured through the years to become a highly coveted collector’s piece, beloved for its balanced layout, svelte profile, and classic look.
An elegant piece which has found itself in high demand from collectors in recent years, the reference 3940 is perhaps the most iconic perpetual calendar of the modern era. The design focuses on balance – with sub-dials placed at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock respectively – and more crucially, in a way that does not make the dial seem over-complicated, despite the highly complicated nature of the watch itself.
This example is even more noteworthy for being made from rose gold, which is rarely used in the reference 3940. Whilst yellow gold, white gold and platinum is found across all three series of the reference, Patek Philippe only introduced rose gold from the late second series onwards and carried it into the third. Whilst white metals remain the rarest, rose gold remains interesting nonetheless, and presents an appealing alternative for a collector who appreciates the warmth of yellow gold, but is seeking something more unusual.
Several factors distinguish this as a later second series piece rather than a first or third series, such as the lack of a grave accent on “Geneve”, and the fact that the “Swiss made” sign is printed in a way that is slightly misaligned with the rest of the minute track. Further to this, the piece features a cross divider on the month and leap year sub-dial, which was a feature introduced after the first series. An impressive complication that speaks to the ingenuity of the craft of watchmaking, this reference 3940 combines practicality with attractive and timeless design.
If sold within the United Kingdom, this Patek Philippe 3940R will be subject to 20% VAT.
Closer look
| Brand: |
Patek Philippe |
| Model: |
3940R |
| Movement: |
Self-winding calibre 240Q |
| Functions: |
Perpetual calendar (leap year, months, days, moonphase), hours, minutes, seconds |
| Case material: |
Rose gold |
| Case diameter: |
36mm |
| Crystal: |
Sapphire front and back |
| Strap: |
Taupe saffiano leather strap, Patek Philippe black alligator strap, rose gold buckle |
| Lug width: |
18x16mm |
| Year: |
c. 1995 |
| Box & papers: |
Additional caseback, setting pin |
This Patek Philippe 3940 is in excellent condition overall, with a few superficial marks throughout consistent with minimal wear. The hallmarks on the left-hand side of the case remain crisp and clearly defined. The buckle shows some light signs of oxidation throughout, with a warm rose hue.
The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.
