The Patek Philippe reference 3940, a perpetual calendar wristwatch produced from 1985 to 2004, holds a special place in the hearts of horological enthusiasts. More than just a timekeeping instrument, it represents a significant chapter in Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar history, a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and enduring elegance. This article delves into the intricacies of the reference 3940, exploring its design, history, associated accessories, and its place within the broader context of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar lineage. We will also touch upon pricing and availability, looking at current market values and exploring resources like 3940 videos to further understand this iconic timepiece.
A Legacy of Perpetual Calendars: Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar History
Before diving into the specifics of the reference 3940, it's crucial to understand its position within Patek Philippe's rich history of perpetual calendar complications. Patek Philippe's journey with perpetual calendars spans over a century, marked by constant innovation and refinement. From early pocket watch iterations to the sophisticated wristwatches we see today, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological excellence. The development of the perpetual calendar mechanism itself is a testament to human ingenuity, requiring a complex interplay of gears and levers to accurately track the varying lengths of months and leap years. The reference 3940 represents a significant milestone in this journey, marking a period of transition and refinement in the design and functionality of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar wristwatches.
The evolution of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar watches is a fascinating study in itself. Early examples were often large and bulky, reflecting the limitations of the technology available at the time. As technology advanced, so did the design, leading to more compact and elegant wristwatches. The reference 3940 benefited from this evolution, showcasing a more streamlined and refined aesthetic compared to its predecessors. This evolution is a key element in understanding the significance of the 3940 within the broader Patek Philippe perpetual calendar history. The watch's design, while distinctly of its era, laid the groundwork for future models and helped solidify Patek Philippe's reputation for creating some of the world's most desirable perpetual calendar watches.
The Reference 3940: Design and Features
The Patek Philippe reference 3940 is immediately recognizable for its classic and understated elegance. Its case, typically available in yellow gold, white gold, or platinum, houses a meticulously crafted perpetual calendar movement. The dial, often characterized by its clean and uncluttered layout, displays the hours, minutes, seconds, date, day, month, and moon phase. The date is displayed in a subdial at 3 o'clock, the day at 9 o'clock, the month at 12 o'clock, and the moon phase at 6 o'clock. This arrangement is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring readability without compromising the watch's overall elegance.
current url:https://lwzfwf.c673n.com/bag/patek-philippe-reference-3940-35498