Patek Philippe 3970 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph FIRST SERIES 18K WOW

The Patek Philippe 3970J Perpetual Calendar Chronograph in 18K yellow gold with a silver dial represents a pinnacle of late 20th-century haute horlogerie. This example is from the first series of production, introduced in 1986 as the successor to the revered 2499. The 3970 houses the manually wound Caliber CH 27‑70 Q—a beautifully finished Lemania‑based movement endowed with Geneva Seal certification and delivering chronograph, perpetual calendar, moonphase, 24‑hour, and leap‑year functions. The 36 mm case, measuring approximately 12.8 mm in thickness, reflects a classic and balanced proportion that speaks to both elegance and wearability. While total production of the 3970 totaled 4000 pieces, the first series run was only a few handfuls, making this example of the utmost collectability amongst Patek Philippe enthusiasts. While it is rumored 100 pieces were made, very very few 3970 first series have come to market making us believe the number is dramatically less. This reference also earns its place as the final hand‑finished perpetual calendar chronograph before the transition to computer‑aided methods grants it enduring collector appeal. The silvered two tone dial features applied gold baton indices and a tricompax layout that is both harmonious and legible, with subtle engine‑turned subdials and apertures for day and month. Distinct leaf-shaped hands, a snap-back closed caseback, and a few subtle dial details differentiate the first series of 3970s from the ones produced in later years. For discerning collectors, the 3970J embodies Patek Philippe’s mastery of combining technical sophistication with timeless design, making it one of the most significant and sought‑after perpetual calendar chronographs of its era. This example is in excellent condition, and comes with a Patek Philippe box and papers dated 1987.