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 reference 3970 used a Lemania based ebauche 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 snap back case, feuille hands and rectangular indexes. Only produced in yellow gold with an estimated 100 examples produced.
Second series (1987 – 1990) – Features a solid screw back case “E – Etanche”, feuille hands and baton indexes. Produced in all four case materials with an estimated 450 examples produced across all metals. (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. Estimated 1,350 examples produced across all metals.
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 deployant clasp. Estimated 2,000 examples produced across all four metals.
The present example is part of the 2nd series with screw-down back from 1989, thus very early into the production of the model. The specimen furthermore impresses with the superb condition of both dial and case. Most notably, the hallmarks to the sides of the lugs - a notoriously sensitive place when it comes to hallmark preservation - are clear and crisp, indicating little to no polishing of the piece. Even the hallmarks on the outside of the caseback are crisp and visible. This is an even more sensitive location than the lugs, as the simple act of continuously wearing the watch might lead to softening of the satin finish or hallmarks.
According to research, white gold is the rarest of the second series with two examples having appeared on the market to the best of our knowledge. This highly well-preserved example complete of its Certificate is thus an unmissable opportunity for the farsighted connoisseur.