Yasuharu Abe's Patek Theory - No. 101 - "Ref.3970EJ-051" "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" 18KYG

Good evening everyone.

This time, I would like to talk about the 18KYG "Ref. 3970EJ-051" "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph", which is my top pick among the Patek Philippe models that have arrived in 2021 (as of April 2021 to March 21, 2022).

Recently, the Nautilus and Aquanaut have tended to be in the spotlight due to the rapid rise and soaring prices of the market, but it is very gratifying and delightful to see that the Ref. 3970EJ-051 we are introducing this time is being re-evaluated.

Of course! I recommend all the watches sold at Commit, but as this is my favorite model, I hope you will stick with me until the end.

"Ref.3970EJ-051"
"Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" 18KYG

※Ref.3970EJ-051

I first encountered the "Ref. 3970" about 18 years ago. At the time, there were more models available than there are now, or maybe I was just lucky, but I was able to see a variety of models in all materials (PT, WG, RG, YG).

※Ref.5004P

Also, when I first saw the higher-end model, the Ref. 5004, equipped with a perpetual calendar and chronosplit, I was so impressed that it seemed as if a halo was shining around me; I remember it as if it were yesterday, but to me it is hard to choose between this and the Ref. 3970, and I find myself getting carried away when describing both of them.

* "Ref.3970" 1st model

Returning to the topic, the "Ref.3970" was released in 1986 as the successor to the "Ref.2499", the second generation of the "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" model. It is said that only 100 were produced, and its most distinctive feature was that the case back was a closed snapback. *This is very confusing, but the case back of the "Ref.3971", which was released at the same time, was made of sapphire.

* "Ref.3970" 1st model

The first model of the "Ref. 3970" has a slightly yellowish color in the sub-dials, leaf-shaped hands, and bar indexes, giving it an irresistible classic feel, and it is almost never seen outside of overseas auctions these days.

Next came the second generation "Ref. 3970" which we will introduce here.

It is said to have been produced from 1986 to 1991, and is not much different from the first generation in that it uses leaf-shaped hands and bar indexes, but the sub-dials are the same color as the dial.

Incidentally, the leaf-shaped hands, which are an important element in creating a classical atmosphere and were also used in the first-generation "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph," Ref. 1518, are only seen in the first and second generations of the "Ref. 3970," and are extremely rare, with a production period of only five years.

The case size of the "Ref.2499" is 37.5mm, while the "Ref.3970" is 36mm. Some people may find it a little small, but its appearance and presence make it feel smaller than others. While around 40mm is considered the standard for recent models, I think many fans like this classic size, which gives it a more cohesive look as a watch.

It depends on the production period, but I personally like the hallmarks engraved on the side of the lugs. Incidentally, I have also seen many models with the hallmark engraved on the back of the lugs.

Here's a little tidbit of information: most second-generation "Ref. 3970" models have screw-down closed backs, but there was a model that also had a skeleton back made very late in the production period (around 1986-1991), and the one we're introducing today is exactly that. The sales date on the warranty is March 1992, but if you read the four letters printed at the bottom of the warranty, you'll find that it was manufactured in October 1991, which is a nice touch for any enthusiast.

The renowned "Cal. CH 27-70 Q" movement, based on Lemania and visible through the sapphire crystal back, is simply beautiful.

In March 2022, the manufacturer overhauled the watch, finished the exterior, and even replaced the leather strap with a new one, all for a total of 450,000 yen. If you own a model of this class, you may not mind the maintenance costs, but it's enough to buy a whole watch for that amount (lol).

The accessories include not only the warranty card, but also the original pass case, booklets, serial tag, closed case back, adjustment pin, and although there is some damage inside, a special box for the "Ref. 3970" in which the case back and adjustment pins can be set is also included, making it a perfect collector's item.

The selling price is 15,950,000 yen (tax included)

There are almost no "Ref. 3970"s for sale in Japan, and it is difficult to find a second-generation example in good condition with all the accessories, even overseas.

Sorry. I wrote this with a lot of enthusiasm, but this one has already been ordered. Good specimens move quickly, after all.

summary

What did you think.

We have received a lot of interest since this article was published, and unfortunately (but I am happy to say) we have decided to sell it. The Nautilus and Aquanaut are still in the spotlight, but I am very happy that a masterpiece like the Ref. 3970 is being recognized.

We must not let our guard down, but we are excited to see that the spread prevention measures are finally over and that more customers will be able to visit Commit!

I will continue to work hard every day to be able to introduce such wonderful watches to you, so I hope you will come to my store or contact me and have a lively discussion about Patek Philippe.

see you!