WatchProSite|Market|Digest
WatchProSite|Market|Digest

Patek Philippe

To my very limited understanding...

 

PPC did not specifically request the gold marks to be applied on the sides of the lugs, but rather, reluctantly did so for customs compliance in Geneva. 

It very much depended on how stringent the officer in charge at the time, and it is not uncommon that he or she would request the gold marks to be applied to highly visible parts of the case, e.g. the sides of the lugs. Apparently they would even go to the extent to request PPC or the case maker to manufacture special tools to allow stampings in highly unusual angles.

This feature is usually found on pieces made in the early 1990s. The case was either made by JHP or Ateliers Reunis. Subsequently all gold marks were applied to underneath the lugs for aesthetic reasons.

Hope that helps.

 

 

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15 Comments view entire thread 

an old friend returns

 
By: jglydon : September 3rd, 2009-09:50
I had just re-purchased a 3970EG that I had sold to a friend a year ago. He was thoughtful enough to give me 1st shot at it and I didn't hesitate to jump on it. I regretted it the moment I sold it the last time. It's one of those watches that I don't see ...  

congrats

 
By: ds : September 3rd, 2009-17:01
amazing watch and yes your freind is a good freind to give you the first shot to buy it back

Beautiful piece John :-)

 
By: CL : September 3rd, 2009-17:11
I love the detail on the side of the lugs. It's truly a classic. *CL

nice story

 
By: brokenwrist : September 3rd, 2009-18:51
it's rare to get a second chance at the original watch. well done. beautiful watch kevin

Its a truly beautiful watch............

 
By: Topcat30093 : September 3rd, 2009-22:58
Congratulations John. It looks in superb condition. I am sure that you shall enjoy wearing it once again.

Congratulations...John...

 
By: little501 : September 4th, 2009-07:30
What an amazing watch... As far as I know...2nd generation 3970 in white gold is very rare; as people usually bought YG and RG watches in late 80's and early 90's...

a truly classy watch....

 
By: Baron - Mr Red : September 4th, 2009-11:37
to me, it oozes the same class as the 5970s....absolutely lovely watch

Such a rare beauty !

 
By: schen : September 4th, 2009-12:46
I am happy for you John, that you got it back. I love 3970, and this 2nd serie 3970EG is especially interesting, and so beautiful.

You’re a tremendous lucky guy!

 
By: marcelo : September 4th, 2009-19:32
I’m sure you’ll not make the same mistake again Cheers! Marcelo

Thank all of you for the kind comments

 
By: jglydon : September 5th, 2009-03:58
I had a spare strap hanging around from a 5056 I had years ago. Its grey with light grey stitching so decided to put it to use on the 3970, its looks so different, perhaps more sportier not sure but I like it. John

John, Big congrats!! "2nd series" 3970 is a true Patek classic...

 
By: arolex : September 5th, 2009-10:59
Love the leaf hands,... a design icon!!!!. You can clearly see the evolutionary design influence from it's predessor: 2499 3rd series. The "2nd series" 3970 is already quite rare, but your white gold example is very rare indeed. Cheers, Arthur.

Lady Luck....

 
By: MiniCooper : September 6th, 2009-10:34
seemed to be on your side and gave you the chance to buy it back : ) Enjoy it Cheers

To my very limited understanding...

 
By: bmak : September 16th, 2009-05:15
PPC did not specifically request the gold marks to be applied on the sides of the lugs, but rather, reluctantly did so for c ustoms compliance in Geneva. It very much depended on how stringent the officer in charge at the time, and it is not uncommon that...