keks
4948
Gorgeous
But I believe your picture depicts a 3998J with unique dial 
My understanding is the text on that one translates to “Helmut Newton” as the commissioner was a big fan.
Below 2 are both J with different text dials (both likely to same owner as they were sold at Sothebys in the same one collection auction):
Additionally there was a 3998T (also in the same collection) with different text again on the dial:
I assume the P in this thread was commissioned by the same gentleman… now, was there an A and a R made as well? Or just a T, a P, and two J’s??
💰1728 Marketplace Listings for Patek Philippe›Patek Philippe Calatrava · 2 for sale · 8307 discussions›
Ref. 3998P
Admittedly, this is the first watch I’ve encountered with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs on the dial. If you happen to have a taste for Patek Philippe watches with quirky and probably unique dials, here is something for your consideration. This watch dates ...
Interesting watch and backstory
Is there a little diamond on the case at at 6 o’clock to indicate it is platinum? I can’t tell for sure. You must have an equally interesting story about how you acquired this one, please feel free to share if possible.👍🏽
There is no diamond in the case at the 6 o'clock position.
The watch is not mine. I had the opportunity to handle it.
Ah, understood, thanks.🙏🏽
It’s probably because it’s a bespoke piece, the diamond wasn’t necessary perhaps.
I find this fascinating..
.. but being an Englishman in his 50’s i can’t help but revisit in my memory the Hieroglyphics clip with the late Ronnie Barker. Now that would make a great dial lol!
Gorgeous
A lovely piece that I had the pleasure to handle not long ago! Great story! ...
Indeed
Most spectacular… this 3998P was unknown to most until now. And as mentioned above consigned by the Scandinavian person who received it from the commissioner of the watch… amazingness in my world
Gorgeous
But I believe your picture depicts a 3998J with unique dial My understanding is the text on that one translates to “Helmut Newton” as the commissioner was a big fan. Below 2 are both J with different text dials (both likely to same owner as they were sold...
A reasonable guess
As to the 2 J’s produced js that one was originally intended as a gift to Mr Newton but was indeed never given away…
No worries
I just happen to notice as I am quite intrigued by these… Interestingly the T was pulled from the 2014 auction before the sale for undisclosed reasons…
It’s indeed a VERY fascinating Patek topic, though one that I’m afraid will remain mostly obscure to the public, by the very nature of unique pieces (save for the occasional picture by the unruly recipient…or an auction sale down the road! :-)
For sure though, being able to commission (or even just acquire!) such unicorn Pateks is THE dream of virtually any top collector!👍🥂 Cheers.
