The Production of the ref. 3970 is divided into four series. The present example belongs to the third series, distinguished by its sapphire display back supplied with an additional screw‑down solid caseback. Crafted in yellow, pink, and white gold as well as platinum, the white gold variant is already the scarcest among the four metals. Rarity here is further heightened by the presence of a black dial—a configuration seldom seen.

Most white‑gold ref. 3970 were delivered with silvered “argenté” dials, and the few black‑dial examples were typically fitted with diamond‑set hour markers. By contrast, the present watch is adorned with faceted baton indexes, a detail that not only renders it exceptionally rare but also lends it a distinctly sportier, more masculine character compared to its jewel‑set counterparts.

“Fresh-to-the-market” and with the coveted baton black dial confirmed on the Certificate of Origin, this configuration is less than 15 examples known to the market. The subtle warmth of the white‑gold case paired with the sleek, inky black dial creates an aesthetic of striking sophistication. Its appeal is further enhanced by the watch’s well‑preserved condition and its complete set of accessories. The present ref. 3970 stands as an outstanding opportunity for the discerning collector seeking one of the most desirable iterations of this landmark reference.