Patek Philippe’s reference 3970 was launched in 1986 as a replacement for the iconic reference 2499. While maintaining the signature aesthetics found in both reference 1518 and 2499 the ref. 3970 used a Lemania-based ébauche as opposed to the previous Valjoux movement. These models also had a leap year and 24-hour indication for the first time.

The reference was produced in yellow gold, pink gold, white gold and platinum across a total of four series with production spanning over 19 years. It is estimated that throughout its course of production over 4,000 examples of the reference were produced.

First series (1986 – 1988) – Features a snapback case, feuille hands and rectangular indexes.

Second series (1987 – 1990) – Features a solid screw back case "E – Etanche", feuille hands and baton indexes. (The present example)

Third series (1989 – 1995) – Features a solid screw back case "E – Etanche" with an extra sapphire caseback, baton hands and lapidated indexes.

Fourth series (1994 – 2004) – Same configuration as the third series; however, there is a change in serial number ranges in the movement and case, and from 1997 onwards, it features a deployant clasp.

Consigned by the original owner, who lives in Geneva, the present example is part of the second series with screwed caseback from 1990, making it one of the very last examples from the series before the firm started to offer an extra sapphire caseback marking the dawn of the third series. Most interestingly, the watch was originally delivered with a closed case back, and the owner had ordered a sapphire caseback after a few years so he could admire the movement. Having guarded the watch carefully, the original owner did not wear the timepiece. Instead, it remained in the safe, unworn, for most of its life. As such, it is one of probably only a few number of second series 3970s to be preserved in virtually unworn and definitely unpolished condition. It is furthermore accompanied by its original accessories such as the Certificate of Origin, second caseback (which was ordered upon special request), setting pin and presentation box.

It even has the original paper bag that was delivered with the timepiece in 1990!

The Second series also had the particularity of having 4 hallmarks stamped on each side of the lugs. In the present example, these hallmarks are clear and crisp, demonstrating that the watch has never been polished. Exceedingly rare, the present timepiece is one of only 10 platinum 3970s known to the market, and approximately 7 known with this dial.