Accompanied by Patek Philippe box, original instruction manual, service receipt from 2016, an extract from the archives and purchase receipt from 1989.

The watch comes from the original owner and is thus fresh to the market.

The 3970, introduced in 1986, succeeded the mythical ref. 2499 — arguably one of the most important perpetual calendar chronographs ever made. That lineage stretches back to the ref. 1518 of 1941, the world’s first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch. It combines two of the most revered complications — a chronograph and a perpetual calendar — in a beautifully balanced, classically sized 36 mm case. It’s not just technically impressive; it’s the kind of mechanical poetry that Patek is famous for.

Produced from 1986 to 2004 in four series, the total number of 3970s is estimated at only around 4,000 pieces — tiny by modern standards. Each series has small, nerd-bait details (from dial layouts to case hallmarks) that fuel collecting obsessions and value differences. This particular example is from the highly desired second series – a run that is made up of approximately 650 watches in total.

The reference 3970 represents the bridge between vintage and modern Patek: retaining traditional hand-finishing and proportions, yet built in the contemporary era with reliability and wearability in mind. Many see it as the last truly “old-world” Patek grand complication. It lies in the sweet spot where pedigree, rarity, craftsmanship, and historical importance all converge. It’s no wonder many collectors consider it one of the most desirable complicated wristwatches ever made — and a cornerstone piece in any serious Patek collection.