patek philippe 3940 | 3940 videos

The Patek Philippe 3940 is more than just a watch; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of fine watchmaking, a symbol of horological excellence, and a coveted piece for collectors worldwide. Launched in 1985 and produced until 2007, this perpetual calendar wristwatch has cemented its place as one of Patek Philippe's most beloved and influential creations. Its understated elegance, combined with its complex movement, makes it a true masterpiece, and its continued demand in the pre-owned market speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. This article delves deep into the world of the Patek Philippe 3940, exploring its history, design, movement, variations, collectability, and ultimately, why it remains a horological icon.

A Brief History of the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar

To truly appreciate the significance of the 3940, it's essential to understand the history of the Patek Philippe perpetual calendar. Patek Philippe has a long and distinguished history of producing perpetual calendar watches, dating back to the 1920s. These early models were primarily pocket watches, intricate pieces of engineering designed to display the correct date, day, month, and leap year without manual adjustment for decades.

The transition to wristwatch perpetual calendars was a significant milestone. In 1941, Patek Philippe introduced the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch. This groundbreaking model set the standard for future generations and cemented Patek Philippe's dominance in the realm of complicated timepieces.

Following the 1518 came other notable references like the 2499, a perpetual calendar chronograph with a larger case and a more modern aesthetic. These watches were produced in relatively limited numbers, adding to their rarity and desirability. The Patek Philippe 3448, launched in 1962, was another significant innovation, being the first automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch. It was nicknamed "The Disco Volante" (Flying Saucer) due to its distinctive case shape.

The 3940, therefore, enters a lineage steeped in history and innovation. It represented a conscious shift towards a more refined and understated aesthetic, while maintaining the complex functionality that defined Patek Philippe's perpetual calendars.

The Birth of an Icon: The Patek Philippe 3940

The Patek Philippe 3940 was designed by legendary watch designer Thierry Stern (current president of Patek Philippe). It was conceived as a more accessible and wearable perpetual calendar compared to its predecessors. Its defining features include:

* Case Design: The 3940 boasts a beautifully proportioned case, typically measuring 36mm in diameter. This size is considered by many to be the sweet spot for a dress watch, offering a comfortable fit on the wrist while maintaining a strong presence. The case is known for its elegant lines, featuring a stepped bezel and elegantly curved lugs. The case materials vary, encompassing yellow gold (3940J), white gold (3940G), rose gold (3940R), and platinum (3940P). The case finish is meticulously executed, with polished surfaces highlighting the watch's refined character.

* Dial Layout: The dial of the 3940 is a masterclass in legibility and balance. It features three subdials: one at 3 o'clock displaying the month and leap year, one at 9 o'clock displaying the day of the week and a 24-hour indicator, and one at 6 o'clock displaying the date and moon phase. The dial is usually made of silvered gold and is finished to a high standard. The simplicity of the dial, with its clean fonts and understated markers, contributes to the watch's timeless appeal.patek philippe 3940

* Movement: The heart of the 3940 is the legendary Patek Philippe caliber 240 Q. This automatic movement is a masterpiece of engineering, comprising 275 individual components, all meticulously finished by hand. The micro-rotor design, crafted from 22k gold, allows for a thinner profile, contributing to the watch's overall elegance. The 240 Q movement is not only technically impressive but also visually stunning, with its Côtes de Genève finishing, perlage, and hand-beveled edges. It's a true testament to Patek Philippe's commitment to excellence in movement design and execution.

Variations and Production Runs

The Patek Philippe 3940 was produced in three distinct series, each with subtle variations:

* First Series (1985-1989): These models are characterized by their snap-back cases and the absence of a seconds hand. They are often considered the purest expression of the 3940 design.

* Second Series (1989-1996): The second series introduced a sapphire crystal case back, allowing the owner to admire the intricate beauty of the 240 Q movement. These models also featured a small seconds hand at 6 o'clock, integrated into the date subdial.