abe
303
patek service process
Could a fellow collector share their experience for getting a perpetual chrono serviced e.g 3970 or 5970. I am specifically looking for the following info;
1. turnaround time
2. does this go through the AD or directly with Henri Stern in NYC
3. Approximate cost for a routine service; the Patek website estimates the service cost to be 1500 CHF (it seems too low a number for a piece like this!)
4. How do you cover the insurance for the watch when in transit
5. Does the case get routinely polished as part of the service
Thanks in advance for your assistance. Kind regards.

Collection
Mike H · Jul 12, 2025
Explore Mike H's Patek Philippe Ref. 3970 in white gold, a vintage perpetual calendar chronograph. Discover collector insights on its proportions, rarity, and how it complements a Patek Philippe Ref. 5970R.
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patek service process
By: abe : October 9th, 2013-16:19
Could a fellow collector share their experience for getting a perpetual chrono serviced e.g 3970 or 5970. I am specifically looking for the following info; 1. turnaround time 2. does this go through the AD or directly with Henri Stern in NYC 3. Approximat...
My experience
By: MikoM : October 10th, 2013-19:05
Abe - I had my 3970 done recently. They can do 3970s (and I would assume 5970s since the have the same movement) at Henri Stern in NY without having to send to Geneva. Mine took 3 or 4 weeks to get an estimate and then 12 weeks once I approved the estimat...
Insured shipping
By: Zhege : October 11th, 2013-13:05
In the US, there are several third party insurers. I have been using Parcel Pro - they focus on watches and jewelry. They primarily work with professional sellers, but are happy to sign up enthusiasts / amateur sellers that have infrequent high value ship...