Complications
Miranda presents the Patek Philippe Reference 3973, a unique and exceptional timepiece from the brand's museum collection. This post delves into the intricate details of this one-of-a-kind split-seconds chronograph with perpetual calendar, originally made for Mr. Philippe Stern, offering a glimpse into Patek Philippe's haute horlogerie.
Complications include:
– 1/5 second chronograph, with round buttons
– Split-seconds (round push button on the winding crown)
– 30-minute register (subsidiary dial at 3 o’clock)
– Instantaneous perpetual calendar
– Date (subsidiary dial at 6 o’clock)
– Day of the week (aperture at 11 o’clock; in French)
– Month (aperture at 1 o’clock; in French)
– Moon phases (aperture at 6 o’clock)
Yellow gold case, No. 2 855 688
Silvered metal dial, applied gold baton indexes, subsidiary seconds dial at 9 o’clock
Gold Dauphine hands, gold seconds hand
Movement No. 869 237, calibre 13-130, straight line lever escapement, Gyromax balance and self-compensating Breguet balance spring, eight adjustments
An incredible piece I am sure you will agree, and totally unique.
Best
Imran
The Patek Philippe Reference 2499 is a highly significant perpetual calendar chronograph, representing a pivotal model in the brand's history of complicated wristwatches. It succeeded the Reference 1518 and introduced a larger case diameter and updated aesthetic, establishing a design language that would influence subsequent perpetual calendar chronographs from Patek Philippe for decades. The reference was produced in four distinct series, each with subtle variations in dial layout, pusher style, and case construction.
This reference typically features a case crafted from precious metals, most commonly yellow gold, though examples in rose gold and platinum are known. The case diameter is generally 37.5mm, housing a manual-wind movement, specifically the caliber 13''' Q. This movement integrates a perpetual calendar mechanism with a chronograph function, offering indications for day, date, month, leap year, and moon phases. The crystal is typically acrylic for earlier series and sapphire for later iterations.
The 2499 is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity, complexity, and historical importance. It is considered a benchmark for vintage complicated Patek Philippe watches and represents the evolution of the perpetual calendar chronograph from the mid-20th century. The variations between the four series provide distinct collecting opportunities, with each series possessing unique characteristics that appeal to different connoisseurs.
Thank you Again for a great insight into to this piece of Patek History. Eye-wateringly beautiful. M.
I will check with Patek, this was the information given to me Thanks Imran
I mean, the watch is to die for!
BTW if it is in the Patek museum , does it ever get worn? do any pieces ever leave the museum for a wrist holiday?- I doubt it PS welcome back Miranda- back with a bang!! Julian
One of the perks of having his own watch manufacture! Thank you for sharing this one with us! Best Blomman
You’ve made this lover of Rattrapante’s a very happy man!! This is by a long way one of the most beautiful Patek’s I have seen!! Still prefer the 5370 though
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