Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 3940J 2nd Series with Box and Papers in 18k Yellow Gold

The future classic

 

The world of neo-vintage Patek has captured us completely, pulling us into a magical realm of a new generation of collectible and vintage-inspired watches. The Patek Philippe complications and Calatravas produced from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s have, over the past years, proven themselves to be the new—and perhaps last—generation of truly collectible Pateks that embody the character and charm of a vintage watch, just like their predecessors. The Patek Philippe 3970 and 5004 are considered by many to be the modern equivalents of the 1518 and 2499 for a new era of high-end Patek collecting. And there is one reference that must not be excluded from that list: the 3940.

 

With the introduction of the 3940 and 3970 in 1985, Patek made a bold move in the aftermath of the Quartz Crisis by staying true to its heritage—a decision that, in our view, may well be the best the brand has ever made. It gave rise to some of the most elegant and refined wristwatches ever created, pieces that have proven to carry the identity, charm, and, importantly, the collectibility of truly vintage watches.

 

This particular example belongs to one of our favourite iterations: the second series, identifiable within a specific serial-number range and distinguished by its iconic opaline dial. Within this series, there are three subtle dial variations: the early second series without a crosshair and with double-stepped registers; the later second series with the same double-stepped registers but now featuring a crosshair; and the late second-series variant with a crosshair and smoother registers. All three sit within the second-series lineage, differentiated only by these fine details.

 

This watch comes directly from the family of the original owner, who purchased it in Switzerland in 1994. It is accompanied by the original sales papers, box, stylus, and period price list. This particular dial variant is typically seen toward the end of the second-series production. While most examples feature a closed caseback, this fine piece is offered with its period-correct sapphire display back.

 

The case remains impressively thick, showcasing the original lines and sharp hallmarks on the side. The watch is fitted to a Bulang & Sons leather strap and comes with its original 18k yellow-gold pin buckle. The 240Q movement has been fully checked and regulated by our watchmaker.

 

We have seen the popularity of the iconic 3940 grow significantly in recent years—and for good reason. It rightfully deserves a place in any Patek aficionado’s collection. Contact us to discuss sourcing one of these exceptional examples.

 

Specifications:

- Patek Philippe 3940J
- 36mm yellow gold case with crystal case back
- Movement serial 774xxx
- Perpetual calendar three dial layout with moonphase
- A rarely seen Italian language calendar
- Automatic movement Cal 240Q
- Pictured leather strap with Patek Philippe 18kt gold Buckle
- Patek Certificate D’Origine stating the sale in 1994, Switzerland
- Fully checked by our watchmaker
- One-year mechanical warranty
- Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping