Launched in 1985, the Patek Philippe ref. 3940 represents one of the most important perpetual calendars of the modern era. Replacing the legendary ref. 3450, the ref. 3940 introduced a new generation of thin, elegant, self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatches powered by the celebrated Caliber 240 Q. With its micro-rotor construction and beautifully balanced dial layout, the ref. 3940 perfectly captures Patek Philippe’s vision during the Philippe Stern era: technical sophistication presented with understated restraint.
This example, made circa 1990, is especially appealing with its factory added 18k yellow gold bracelet, giving the watch a completely different personality from the more commonly seen strap examples. The bracelet adds presence and period charm while preserving the refined proportions that make the ref. 3940 so wearable. At 36 mm, the case remains elegant and discreet, while the perpetual calendar display — day, date, month, leap year, 24-hour indication, and moon phases — offers one of the most harmonious complicated dial designs ever produced by Patek Philippe.
Unfortunately, Patek Philippe will not archive this watch most likely due to the fact the Patek Philippe bracelet is attached and not removable. This watch was most likely born without a bracelet and the bracelet was added by Patek Philippe in the early 1990s per the request of the original owner. However the fact that this watch does not archive is your opportunity to buy a trophy watch for far under market value. Sized to fit a 6.5 inch diameter wrist.
