3970J

Jan 15, 2025,08:06 AM
 

Happy new year everyone… after many years of collecting modern Patek (incl a PPC 5270P), I am thinking of changing direction to vintage/neo vintage. Few months back i was able to see a 1990s 3970J and was fascinated and started thinking of aquiring one.

I am close to possibly finding a food example. Being new to this vintage world, I thought i would ask the members here on their views on the 3970J, specially in terms of use (i am not an investor so want to use it), design and general feedback, given thise pieces are now very expensive if you find a complete set.

Any feedback is appreciated!


Watch by Patek Philippe, 5270, grand complications, 3970

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No competition

 
By: m2 : January 15th, 2025-08:39
Modern patek design doesn’t come close to references like the 3970 and 3940 imo. You are making the right choice.

The 3970 is obviously a beautiful classic.

 
By: GWIS : January 15th, 2025-09:09
But it’s a fair bit smaller than your 5270, so if you actually plan on using a 3970 how readable is it for you given that smaller size? If that’s your wrist in the picture it certainly fits you well. All the best, Jon

I have a small wrist, and own a 3941J and 5970R

 
By: BuffaloWatch : January 15th, 2025-12:26
I love the size of the 3941 and as far as readability goes, after a while you rely on the position of the hands on the subdials as opposed to reading numerals or tiny letters, and discern the info you need. I'm proud to own a 5970 but still regret passing... 

Why not wear your 5970?

 
By: chris19049 : January 15th, 2025-16:02
Hi BuffaloWatch. Don't mean to hijack the thread, but why don't you wear your 5970 more often? It's such a beautiful watch!

Several reasons

 
By: BuffaloWatch : January 16th, 2025-14:29
I still am afraid that I will bump or damage it out in the world; I am perhaps a little self-conscious still about wearing such a valuable watch in public; it's not the easiest watch to glance at and tell the time; the original strap was too big and the s... 

3970 is a wonderful piece ! It is a

 
By: GLau : January 15th, 2025-14:31
smaller piece and it would depend on what size fits you best. Its nickname is the “hamburger” 🤣 Let us know your decision !
By: celestialmoon5102 : January 15th, 2025-16:28
it was a great era for Patek Philippe the addition of a leap year idication was very helpful, for setting, when not using continually, ...  

I really love the design of this reference.

 
By: gary_g : January 16th, 2025-12:11
Especially the pump pushers. I thought about getting one several times before the prices started increasing in the past 2 years. But every time I tried it on the proportions didn’t quite feel right. I always felt that it was too thick for its size. Some c...