"3rd Series" 1999 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Moonphase 18K RG (Ref. 3940R) W/ Winder Box, Papers, & Accessories

The Patek Philippe 3940 is generally broken down into three versions, or three series, across its illustrious 21 years of production from 1985-2007. Initially introduced only in solid yellow gold and with the very first 25 units being numbered and co-signed by retailer Beyer, rarified air is the most qualifying adjective for these, and shortly after the initial launch, Patek released models in white gold, platinum, and then later rose gold as well. The first series is highly regarded for being the original design, characterized by the "sunken sub-dials", but is far and beyond the most rare of the three series. It is well documented that only 700 pieces were produced in the first series during a short production run between 1985 and 1987. The second series saw the most substantial aesthetic change to the dial, though it is also decidedly appreciated for its classical beauty. This series is also broken into an early and late subdivision and was in production from 1987 to 1995. The third series is visually very similar to the second series, while airing on a slightly more modern aesthetic, Patek also introduced the caliber 240/114 in this series, and it was produced between 1995-2007. The Patek Philippe ref. 3940 was also re-released in the year 2015 with a white gold case and salmon dial for the brand's 175th-anniversary grand exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London.

For many collectors, the reference 3940 could be a one-watch collection, hitting the mark on so many levels from historical significance, manufacturing ingenuity, aesthetic excellence, and general wearability overall. While this may or may not be true for you, the importance of the 3940 remains paramount, being a watch with an impact that is still felt today by helping change the course of watchmaking's future through being a pillar of mechanical brilliance.

SPECS

Stock # PP3940R
Brand Patek Philippe
Style Perpetual Calendar Moonphase
Model 3940R
Serial 31XXXXX/ 40XXXXX
Size Men's
Material 18K Rose Gold
Dial Silver
Millimeters 36
Strap 2pc Patek Philippe Brown Alligator Leather "Cousu Main" Strap W/ 18K RG Patek Philippe Deployant Clasp

CASE & BRACELET

The exceptional 18K rose gold case maintains strong dimensions, with minimal signs of use and only nominal signs of being previously polished. The case retains its original crown bearing the Patek Philippe cross. The sapphire display case back showcases the stunning cal. 240/114 movement and is in excellent condition, showing no notable wear. The watch also comes with its original solid rose gold case back, which retains its factory protective sticker and is in perfect condition. The watch comes supplied on its original 2-piece Patek Philippe brown alligator leather strap with the original 18K rose gold deployant clasp. The watch also comes with an additional 2-piece Patek Philippe tan alligator strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original brushed silver early "3rd-series" dial is flawless, showing no damage or age. The left 24-hour indicator sub-dial features an extremely subtle two-tone effect. The hands all remain original to the watch and are in excellent condition. The moon phase disc is flawless.

ACCESSORIES

The watch is a complete set featuring its original outer box, inner watch winder box, certificate of origin, setting pusher, additional solid 18K rose gold case back, and booklets. The hang tag is also original, but no longer features the serial numbers. The watch also comes with an additional Patek Philippe 2-piece tan alligator "cousu main" strap. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, no service history is known.

Dimensions: 36mm

Box, Papers, etc.: Complete Set

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