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Good evening everyone.
The hot weather peaked last weekend, and it looks like the temperature will be milder this week. Please be careful not to get sick from the sudden temperature changes.
Well, this time, we would like to introduce you to another popular dial of "Ref.3970" that is "committed to first arrival" in excellent condition (single shield). Please read to the end!
"Ref.3970EG-018"
"Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" 18KWG
The specifications of the "Perpetual Calendar Chronograph" "Ref. 3970" vary depending on the sales period and case material.
Regardless of the time (generation) when they were produced, all of them have beautifully finished designs that have captivated many watch fans, but when considering the distinctive dials, hand and index combinations, and case specifications, they can be roughly divided into three generations.
*Some say that the period after the movement number changed from six digits to seven digits is the fourth generation, but we do not make that distinction because the appearance of the dial, hands, etc. does not change. Incidentally, around that time the buckle was changed from a pin type (buckle) to a folding buckle.
The watch we are introducing this time is the "third generation" of the "Ref. 3970," which is said to have been produced in relatively large numbers, but it continues to be scarce on the market. What's more, it is in "single-sealed" condition, and considering the color of the dial, we think it is an extremely rare piece.
Recently, I've been seeing more and more articles featuring the "Ref. 3970" on domestic and international websites, and market sentiment has improved compared to a while ago, so I think it will become more highly rated in the medium to long term.
The first generation model only had an 18KYG (yellow gold) case and was produced in only about 100 pieces. The case back was a closed snap back, and the dial and sub-dials were different colors, creating a classic look with a strong contrast.
The second generation, which came later, is the same as the first generation in that it uses leaf-shaped hands and bar indexes, but the subdials are the same color as the dial. Most of the watches have a screw-down closed back, but there were also models with a skeleton back made very late in the production period.
The classic leaf hands were only seen on the first and second generations of the Ref. 3970, and as the production period was short at just five years, they are rarely available on the market, making them very popular and sought after by many people.
The third generation, "Ref. 3970E", appeared afterwards.
The "E" in "Ref.3970E" stands for "etanche" in French, which means "waterproof." It is a screw-down type, and is sold with a closed back and a sapphire crystal see-through back. There are various theories, but one is that it was introduced in response to a series of individual orders from customers for the "Ref.3970" model skeleton back.
The dial has changed from baton-shaped to triangular-shaped indexes, and the hands have changed from leaf hands to baton hands. It is said that this generation is the one with the largest production numbers, but the impression is that the "Ref. 3970" itself is extremely rare on the market.
The watch we have in stock this time is our first ever 18KWG (white gold) case, black dial, and bar indexes, and is a single-sealed model! Every time we get a new Ref. 3970, the excitement is at its peak! But this time, the excitement is unmatched. (laughs)
Although it can only be seen through the vinyl of the "single shield", it has a "glossy" dial, just like the "Ref.3970EP" platinum case with diamond indexes that we currently have in stock, and the indexes are bar indexes rather than diamonds. The third generation "Ref.3970" platinum case also has a black dial with bar indexes, and this is also said to have been manufactured in later years. There are few on the market, so it seems that many people are looking for it because it is popular.
The renowned "Cal. 27-70 Q" movement, which can be viewed through the sapphire crystal back, is so beautiful that it will leave any watch lover speechless.
The included closed back, adjustment pins, and serial tag are all still in their original plastic packaging. In addition, the original sleeve case with the movement/serial number sticker is still attached, so the watch is in perfect condition.
The accessories, warranty, pass case, booklets, serial tag, closed back cover, adjustment pin, sleeve case, envelope to store the pass case with the movement/serial number, and box to set the adjustment pin, are all in good condition and perfect as a collector's item. It's been a while since I've seen such a complete set of accessories in such good condition.
*The plastic packaging is unopened, and since we are unable to check the accuracy or operation of the watch, it will be sold as is (without warranty).
The warranty date is September 2004, but the four-digit alphabet printed at the bottom reveals that this watch was manufactured in May 2004. It is said that production of the "Ref. 3970" ended around 2004, so this watch is near the end of its series. Furthermore, considering that it is a "single shield," this watch is extremely rare and perfect for a collection piece.
The selling price is 25,960,000 yen (tax included)
Click here for the product page
summary
What did you think?
The "Ref. 3970G-001" that I introduced in my last column was also on sale in just under a week, and I was reminded once again that there are many people who are looking for and paying attention to the "Ref. 3970". The 18KWG (white gold) case x black dial is rare and has a short production period, and it is difficult to find in this condition. I think this is a very exciting model considering its future. If you are considering purchasing one, I recommend that you do so as soon as possible.
For those who are looking for one, this is surely a very attractive price. As this is a rare model, it is expected to be quite difficult to get another in stock, so we recommend that customers who are considering purchasing one do so now! We will continue to offer attractive models at reasonable prices, so please look forward to it!
See you next time!
