
Jimjenkins provides a detailed comparison of the new Patek Philippe Ref. 5327 perpetual calendar with its predecessors, the Ref. 5140 and Ref. 3940. The author meticulously analyzes the design changes, particularly the case size and dial aesthetics, offering a critical perspective on how these updates align with Patek Philippe's legacy of understated elegance. This post is a valuable resource for collectors evaluating the evolution of Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar offerings.
The Patek Philippe Reference 3940 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch that was introduced in 1985, succeeding the Reference 3450. It is notable for its relatively slim profile and the integration of a perpetual calendar complication in a refined case. This reference became a cornerstone of Patek Philippe's complicated watch offerings for nearly two decades, establishing a design language for subsequent perpetual calendar models. It represents a significant period in the brand's modern history of complicated timepieces.
The watch features a 36mm case, typically crafted from yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, or platinum. It houses the self-winding Caliber 240 Q movement, which is known for its micro-rotor construction, contributing to the movement's thinness and allowing for a slimmer case profile. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, often accompanied by an interchangeable solid case back and a sapphire display back.
Reference 3940 is highly regarded by collectors for its classic proportions and the enduring appeal of its perpetual calendar display, which includes day, date, month, leap year cycle, and moon phases. It was produced in several series, with subtle variations in dial layout and typography, making early series examples particularly sought after. The reference is considered a benchmark for perpetual calendar watches and remains a significant piece for those appreciating traditional horological complications.
I love this blue dial and the breguet numbers a lot, but 2 mm less would have been perfect. Best, Nicolas
the more I'm impressed about 3940. Even it is the smallest of the three, it is without any questions the most readable (for me). I love my 5550P but if they would have placed it to 3940 case and dial, that watch would have been Perfection. Think about the dial of 5327. If the sundials would be copies of 3940, the new dial would have a very open feeling. That might be new perfection. Best, Kari
...hard to compete with perfection.
The more I see the 3940 the more I'm drawn to it but I am a little worried about the size (I have tried it on). The dial is perfect to me and if it had been the size of the 5140 I think I would have already jumped on it. I'm beginning to find my 5146 a bit large and thick, although I do still love it as it was my first Patek complication. I knew Patek were releasing their update on the 5140 at Basel this year so I waited with bated breath to see it and I'm quite underwhelmed. I don't like the fa
then all I can say is that 3940 is perfection. And naturally, AC and PC are two different classes. Best, Kari
But I didn't want to hijack the thread. From the posts I have read there seem to be many who love the 3940 and consider it to be the ultimate PC.
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