Patek Philippe

Several brands offered and still offer this combination of complications, and among them, Patek Philippe. 

In the modern era, there are two or three ( if we count the 5004, which adds a rattrapante ) which are really worth a look, the 3970, the 5970, and the 5004. 

I had the opportunity to see a 3970P, 1st series, with its solid case back, some days ago, thanks to a good friend if mine. 

Its 36, 7 mm case is not that small, on the wrist. And the watch oozes elegance. 

Still, it will be my third choice... My heart is already taken by the 5970P. Not because of the size, but because of its black dial and the shape of the case. 

Now, I wonder which one I would prefer, between a 5970P and a 5004P... But I will come back to that. 

In platinum, this 3970 is a refined watch, understated, timeless. 

And I like the solid case back a lot, too. 

Thanks to its owner for this encounter. 

Best,

Nicolas

   That the first series which began manufacture in around 1986, transitioned from the 2499 which ceased production around 1985. It consisted of about 100 pieces, all of which had 2 characteristics which distinguished it from all other 3970 series. First, it had a snap back. Almost all were solid backs, but there were relatively few transparent backs, noted as 3971. Second, the dial was 2 tone with the registers at 3 and 9 having a slightly different color than the rest of the dial. The difference is subtle and can missed when looking at the dial straight on. By tilting the dial, the color difference becomes apparent. I never heard of a platinum 1st series. In fact, I never heard of any other metal than yellow gold. Doesn't mean there weren't any made, I am just not aware of any.

   The second series continued the leaf hands and flat hour markers of the 1st series, but the 2 tone dial was gone as was the snap back. The watch now had a screw back.  2d series platinums are very rare, although I have seen a couple.

   In the third series the leaf hands were replaced by baton hands, and the hour markers were now faceted. This describes the 3970 you posted. So why do I say EARLY 3rd series. 3 reasons. First, the moon disc is a radiant blue/yellow - not silver/black. This only occurred with early 3rd series white gold and platinum 3970s (also very early G and P 5020s from 1994/1995). Second, the font of the day and month discs was thinner than in later production. Third, early 3rd series platinums like the one you posted only came with one back, the solid back. Later platinums came with both backs. If I had to hazard a guess, I would say the watch you posted probably dates from around 1993 to 1995 - but that is merely an educated guess and nothing more than that.

Nicolas, I hope you are not offended by my setting forth my different viewpoint.

Again, thanks for posting the beautiful image. I once had one just like this from 1993. I miss it. Great watch!

Best, patrekova