Perpetual Calendar Watches Comparison Guide

quattro · 2025-12-11T19:53:43Z

Explore the Patek Philippe ref. 3941J vs. Audemars Piguet ref. 25668BA Perpetual Calendars. Dive into collector insights on movements, design, and rarity.

Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, presents a compelling comparison between two horological titans: the Patek Philippe ref. 3941J and the Audemars Piguet ref. 25668BA. His original post, rich with detailed imagery, invites collectors to weigh the merits of these self-winding perpetual calendars. This article synthesizes community insights, offering a timeless perspective on these iconic references.

Two self-winding Perpetual Calendars:

Patek Philippe ref. 3941J with caliber 240 Q micro-rotor. Case diameter: 36 x 9 mm

Audemars Piguet ref. 25668BA with caliber 2120/2800 SQ central rotor. Case Diameter: 36 x 8 mm

Do you have a preference?

Best, Emmanuel

credit: @penny_watch_seoul

Key Points from the Discussion

The Patek Philippe 3940 (the 3941J is a variant) is considered by many to be the 'platonic ideal' of a perpetual calendar, setting a benchmark for the complication.
The Audemars Piguet ref. 25668BA is highly respected for its rarity, with only 205 pieces produced across all metals, and the significant handwork involved in its creation.
Some collectors express a preference for full-size rotors over micro-rotors, influencing their choice between the two calibers.
The AP caliber 2120/2800 SQ, with its engraving and openworked dial, allows visibility of the movement from both sides, which is a significant draw for many.
Despite generally not favoring openwork dials, several contributors, including quattro, found the AP's 4-subdial layout and overall aesthetic surprisingly appealing, highlighting how specific designs can challenge personal preferences.
The skeletonized caliber in the AP is specifically the 2120/2800SQ, distinguishing it from the non-skeletonized base caliber 2120/2800.

The Discussion

mdg

Dec 11, 2025

Brutal choice...which one of your kids do you love the most?

...maybe a slight edge to the 3941 as it's a tad more readable, and maybe the classic PC...

quattro

Dec 11, 2025

Normally, I should choose the 3941 too,

given my conservative tastes. But here, I feel attracted to the AP. I prefer the 4 subdials layout and somehow the “crazy” aesthetic appeals to me. Best, Emmanuel

mdg

Dec 11, 2025

I perfectly understand this...the AP has the wow factor for sure...

Dec 11, 2025

AP in a heartbeat.

The frontside just has more character in my eyes. I will confess that the uber cool strap probably influences my opinion to a degree. I also prefer full size rotors to micro rotors. The PP gets a check mark for superior legibility but it just doesn't excite me like the AP. Thanks for the post. M4

quattro

Dec 11, 2025

Same for me here! 👌🏼

quattro

Dec 11, 2025

Well, I feel like you here, even if I’m generally not into openwork aesthetic.

But never say never: here the AP appeals to me. I prefer the 4 subdials layout and the color scheme and strap are just stunning. It’s always nice to be reminded that each timepiece and situation is different and can be challenging for one’s tastes. Best, Emmanuel

Perpetual Calendar Watches Comparison Guide

Key Points from the Discussion

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