Patek Philippe 5327 vs. 5140 vs. 3940 Comparison
Reference Guide

Patek Philippe 5327 vs. 5140 vs. 3940 Comparison

By jimjenkins · Mar 25, 2016 · 27 replies
jimjenkins
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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.

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After seeing the pictures of the new 5327, I had to compare it side by side to my favorite 5140 (37 mm) and 3940 (36 mm). 

My initial reaction is that the 5327 really looks very nice. The new 5327 at 39 mm has Breguet numbers that covers up the empty space created by the case diameter increase and leaf hands that go really well with this font. However, the 39 mm size is pushing the limits of an understated watch. At 39 mm, the watches generally have a big presence on the wrist and starts getting unwanted attention.  That is of course my opinion and my wrist size talking. The 36 mm, 37 mm and max 38 mm watches are the main reason I am a Patek fan, a brand that represented the understated elegance. 
 
I also noticed few subtle changes on the dial of 5327. First, unlike my initial positive reaction, I realized that the date numbers are not uniform, with "5" still slightly smaller than 3 or 7. This is more pronounced in 5140. But clearly, 5327 did not solve that quirk. In 5140 the "27" is also slightly smaller than the rest, just like the "5". The 3940 still retains the #1 spot in perfect dial contest. 

Interestingly, the date scale in 5327 is also rotated ccw by one day (in comparison to 5140) so that the dates "27" and "29"now are similar in size to other numbers. The  date wheel of 5327 looks like 3940.  However, all the date numbers are smaller in 5327 than 5140, in spite of the larger case diameter of the 5327. This is the harsh reality of putting a movement designed for a 36 mm case into a 39 mm watch. Unfortunately we see similar problems with several other models also. 

Final comments: I like the 5327 design, but the case is too big for my taste. 

Best

Jim 








About the Patek Philippe Grand Complications Ref. 3940

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.

Specifications

Caliber
240 Q
Case
Yellow Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Platinum
Diameter
36mm
Dial
Silver, White, Opaline
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Mar 25, 2016

I love this blue dial and the breguet numbers a lot, but 2 mm less would have been perfect. Best, Nicolas

DR
dr.kol
Mar 26, 2016

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

MD
mdg
Mar 26, 2016

...hard to compete with perfection.

CI
Cinch
Mar 26, 2016

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

DR
dr.kol
Mar 26, 2016

then all I can say is that 3940 is perfection. And naturally, AC and PC are two different classes. Best, Kari

CI
Cinch
Mar 26, 2016

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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