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An elegant piece that has found itself in high demand from collectors in recent years, the reference 3940 is perhaps the most iconic perpetual calendar of the modern era. The design focuses on balance – with sub-dials placed at three, six, and nine o’clock respectively – and more crucially, in a way that does not make the dial seem over-complicated, despite the highly complicated nature of the watch itself.

A rare "dorè" dial version

This variation of the 3940 features an incredibly rare “doré” dial, a light golden colour that is an attractive complement to the yellow gold case, with a muted shimmer that draws the eye to its surface. It shares design traits with early second series examples, produced between 1987 and 1989, following the first series with sunken sub-dials. Examples of the reference 3940 with this type of dial are typically only found in pieces made fairly early on in production, and only a small number have appeared publicly.

Most notably, the earliest Beyer-signed 3940s with first series dials were equipped with this rare doré tone. The word “doré” itself references “a gold or gold-like substance”, which is a fitting description for this 3940, with its alluring, bright texture. The appeal extends to a number of historically important Patek Philippe watches, with examples of the references 2499, 3448, and 3971 having all been discovered with similar doré dials. As a testament to their desirability, Philippe Stern, the then-executive of Patek Philippe, was once seen wearing a 3940 with a similar golden shade.

As is often the case with early examples, it features a solid yellow gold caseback, hiding away the true beauty of the movement in an elegant and traditional fashion. Outside of the first series, this example is one of the earliest known with a doré dial to have a closed caseback. Created towards the turn of the century, this watch is an excellent example of the neo-vintage movement, marking an exciting period of rebirth for the watch industry. At 36mm, the watch wears comfortably on the wrist while the size is also being reminiscent of vintage watches, further adding to its charm.

Provenance

The watch was purchased by the original owner from an authorised retailer in the Scottish city of Glasgow. At the time, the retailer was managed by a close family friend, who recommended the owner purchase this watch. A much-loved piece, it was worn regularly, showing evidence in the overall condition throughout. It comes with its original wooden box and a signed Certificate of Origin, as well as the original hangtag and a servicing hangtag from Patek Philippe. Please see the condition report for more information.

Closer look

Condition

This Patek Philippe 3940J "doré" is in good condition. Superficial marks and small scratches are seen throughout, noticeably on the bezel, lugs, and the middle left portion of the case back, which have been polished at some point. As a result of this, the case hallmarks are no longer visible. The dial also has small imperfections, seen at the center of the right sub-dial at three o’clock. There are also imperfections on some of the movement plates, which can be seen in product photography. An estimate with Patek Philippe has already been produced, with a standard service recommended and the replacement of some of the movement bridges optional.

Warranty

The watch comes with a complimentary service and repair with Patek Philippe in London, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.