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Patek Philippe

3970 versus 5970 is a comparison I have given considerable thought to. What I am about to write is not an assessment of which I think is the “better” watch (whatever that means).

 

It is merely and only my personal preference. 3970 clearly has the DNA of 2499/100 (4th and final series). 2499 is regarded by many as not only the GOAT Patek, perhaps the GOAT watch by any brand. The 3970 case aesthetically is basically a slightly smaller version of 2499. The dial is quite similar. And the 3970 is much more practical and user friendly with all 4 calendar functions (including the moon) being quick set. With no tachometer scale, for a very complicated watch, the dial is open, uncluttered and the watch is very attractive and  elegant. So what is there not to love? Actually nothing. It is a fantastic watch.


That said, with the standard dial, compared to 5970 I find it a little on the dull side (a blasphemous statement surely 😊). On the other hand some  of the special dials 3970s have the pop and excitement that for me is missing in the standard dial 3970s. I deeply want to love 3970 more than I do, but I can’t get there. At one point I had both 3970 and 5970, but I found that I never wore the 3970 once I acquired 5970. Obviously this is merely a matter of personal taste, but 5970 for me is about as perfect as a watch can be. I feel an excitement and appreciation every time I wear it.

I can certainly understand why so many collectors, perhaps most, prefer 3970, but try as I might to convince myself otherwise or at least to love each equally,  I much prefer 5970.

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