Patek Philippe
Perpetual Calendar

Perpetual calendars have always been associated with Patek Philippe, as the Maison can claim several world firsts when it comes to the complication. It should come as no surprise, then, that amongst the new watches envisioned by then-president Philippe Stern at the beginning of the Eighties, one was indeed a quantieme perpetuel.

However, the reference 3940 was a first in many ways: it showed a new layout featuring three subdials, and had a slim, rounded case that showed no link to its predecessor - the famed 3448. It was still an automatic watch, but the caliber inside was the all-new 240Q, with an off-center micro rotor. It quickly became a favourite for many, including Stern himself, who notoriously wears one as his daily.

The present watch, dated 1998 and cased in yellow gold, is a wonderful third series example. Besides being preserved in pristine conditions, it comes as full set as it possibly could: the original box, papers, corrector pin are included, as well as both caseback - solid and display.