Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 3940J Early Second Series in 18k yellow gold with Extract of the Archives and Box

While watch trends may come and go, the perpetual calendar remains a timeless favourite among seasoned collectors. We are therefore delighted to offer one of the rarest variations of this next-generation classic and grail for many: the reference 3940.

 

The aesthetically perfect 3940 was originally introduced in 1985 as a limited run of just 25 pieces to celebrate the 225th anniversary of Beyer Chronometrie. Following this, the reference was launched to the broader public. The 3940 enjoyed an incredible production run, with collectors often favouring the earlier series—no exception in this case. The early dials of the 3940 feature a more distinctive and vintage-inspired layout that sets them apart.

 

This refined example, crafted in 18k yellow gold, features the highly collectible—and in our opinion, one of the most beautiful dials, the early second-series. This variant is significantly rarer than the more commonly seen later versions. Key differences include redesigned sub-dials with bevelled edges on the day and month counters, giving them greater visual presence, and the absence of a crosshair in the sub-seconds dial at 3 o’clock.

 

The dial is a masterclass in balance and subtle sophistication, full of character and thoughtful detail. At the heart of this watch lies the true star: its calibre 240Q perpetual calendar movement. Released at the height of the quartz crisis—a period that threatened the future of traditional Swiss watchmaking—Patek boldly introduced this complicated masterpiece in a perfectly proportioned 36mm case.

 

The case remains beautifully balanced and is fitted with the correct solid case back. The watch is accompanied by an official Extract from the Archives and Patek Philippe service papers from 2020. The calendar displays are in French—a charming and romantic detail, and one of the rarest lay-outs. Fitted with a supple leather strap and the original Patek gold pin buckle, this watch ticks every box for the discerning collector. This fine calendar has also been fully checked by our watchmaker.

 

We have a real soft spot for the 3940—still one of the most underappreciated references in Patek’s storied catalogue. Its time in the spotlight is coming, and we wouldn’t be surprised if this reference soon crosses the €100k mark. The early series in particular are exceptional, and to us represent the most pleasing and interesting iteration of the 3940.

 

Interested? Let’s talk—this is one you’ll want to see in person.

 

 

Specifications:

 

• Patek Philippe Perpetual calendar reference 3940J

• Rarer “Early second series “ variant

• 36mm yellow 18 k yellow gold case with solid case back

• Case serial 283xxxx/Movement serial 770xxx , dating to 1987

• Perpetual calendar three dial layout with moonphase, French language

• Automatic movement Cal 240Q

• Leather strap with original Patek Philippe gold buckle

• Patek Philippe archive extract stating manufacturing and sale in 1987

• 2020 Patek Philippe service invoice

• Fully checked by our watchmaker

• One-year mechanical warranty

• Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping