Patek Philippe

With my limited knowledge I know that this is a third or fourth series, but the watch only comes with the solid case back. Is this normal, or the third and fourth series all came with both, solid and Sapphire case backs? Also is this example a third or fo...  

… there should be both case backs in this case.

the watch has hallmarks on the side of its lugs ( with that dial configuration) it’s probably a third series 3970. If it has hallmarks only on the back of its lugs ( again with that dial configuration) it is probably a fourth series 3970. From what I have...  

The one I’m looking at based on your description, it’s a third series, because it has the hallmarks on the side, but doing a little research on the net, I found black diamond dialed examples with both case backs... Nevertheless I appreciate your descripti... 

My 3970P also has two case backs (3rd series).

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Hope we see your wrist shots soon !

I am a huge fan of the PP chrono PC saga and since 1518 and 2499 are a different league totally (out of reach for me ) it goes without saying that 3970 is not only iconic but also a kind of fatal attraction for me... I have been the lucky owner of a 3970 ...  

The members (not me) have an encyclopedic knowledge on watches. I love reading these posts. I am very happy and proud to be a purist member. Thanks so much.

Actually me too I often learn a lot from others ;-)

The very first had discolored subdials and a solid sna-on case back. Then the dial changed to „normal“ colored sub-dials but the snap-on case back remained. 3971 was also offered with snap-on glas case back. All the above are quite rare and trade at a pre... 

You got yourself some fantastic references!