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3970 is the original…
…and 5970 just a later copy with a larger case. The 5970 case is also too large for the dial (they needed to expand it to fit the larger case). The 5970 case is also too big for the 3970 caliber.
A preference of some for a larger watch taken aside - the 3970 is superior. And one should always remember that fashion trends come and go. Larger watches were trending for the last years. 36mm will be the new old trend 
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3970 vs 5970
I owned 5970 which i sold. I am finding the 3970 understated and size is more vintage… what do you guys think of both? I am seeing more of them lately vs the usual Nautilus/Aquanauts ...
3970 is a lovely watch, as is 5970. IMO it comes down to
which size fits your lifestyle better. Personally I like the pusher more on 3970. Enjoy it often ! How do you compare and contrast between the two ?
For me, the 5970 is near-perfection
The 3970 is thick for its diameter, and somewhat small for modern preferences. That said, the 3970 is a wonderful piece and those with wrists that can support the smaller size are lucky given that the price differential between the two references is very ...
I agree with both the previous posters
The more vintage feel of its smaller diameter and pump pushers is a 3970 advantage for it. The much finer case proportions of the 5970 is an advantage for it. Both are absolutely fantastic watches but if it were my money, it'd be a 3970.
My preference is the 5970
The case design with the flared lugs elevates the watch and despite being 40mm, it’s wears closer to a 38.5mm because of the bezel and lugs design.. plus the larger diameter balances out the height nicely.. finally the tachymeter makes the look more sport...
Personally I like 5970 a bit more due to its contemporary size.
However, 3970 is nothing less than a grail PP if you likes its more vintage size.
3970 - Because I never got into the 5970
I bought a 5270 a few years ago, intended on looking for a 5970 but the prices were very high, so 5270 it was. I have tried on the 5970 extensively, on one occasion I tried it with the 3970. For me, the 3970 was effortlessly more charming in gen 2 guise. ...
3970 is the original…
…and 5970 just a later copy with a larger case. The 5970 case is also too large for the dial (they needed to expand it to fit the larger case). The 5970 case is also too big for the 3970 caliber. A preference of some for a larger watch taken aside - the 3...
3970 for me..
as it wears better and more classic vintage though it would be very close. An early series 3970 would be very special.
I tried in the 3970 several times.
While it’s beautiful and I love the pump pushers, I find it too thick. I’ve been obsessed with the 3940 for a while. I’ve tried it on many times. While I love the design, I just can’t pull the trigger due to the 36mm size. I’ve tried 5140 and 5327 - while...
3970 versus 5970 is a comparison I have given considerable thought to. What I am about to write is not an assessment of which I think is the “better” watch (whatever that means).
It is merely and only my personal preference. 3970 clearly has the DNA of 2499/100 (4th and final series). 2499 is regarded by many as not only the GOAT Patek, perhaps the GOAT watch by any brand. The 3970 case aesthetically is basically a slightly smalle...
I agree with you..
There is something special abt the case.. it’s rather strong and sporty.. the 3970 and 5970 abt both thick watches ~ 13mm.. the 40mm case balances it out perfectly.. the only complain I have is the date ring eats into the minute track.. setting the time t...
I prefer the 5970
The crown is a bit small compared to the case, but it's so beautiful. Chk
Having owned the 3970
I think if I have the choice, I would pick the 5970. The reason is that the 3970 size feels small for my wrist, and the 5970 fits much better. However, I own the 5270g, and here's a pic of it beside the 5970j. Both have their merits. ...