I personally consider the modern era to be approximately 1986 to today. Why do I feel that way? With the discontinuation of of 3448/3450 and 2499 (watches whose functions could not be quick set) and the introduction of 3940 and 3970 (both of which are quick set), owning and occasionally wearing a complicated watch became much more user friendly …. modern , one might say. But please use any definition you like. Some say anything more than 25 years old is vintage. Some say the 5970 is neo vintage. The 5970 for me is a perfect watch and simply put when it is on my wrist I get a different feeling and higher level of happiness than any other modern watch I have ever owned or tried on, including 5004 which is rarer and much more complicated. I look forward to reading and seeing your thoughts and images. Best, Patekova