patrick_y
[PuristSPro Moderator]
33540
Seen, heard, and handled both of these...
When I looked at both of these watches in the flesh, I too had this question. I asked the watch boutique agent which one would he acquire, he said the 3939, and I asked my heart which one I would prefer and my heart very quietly said 5078P louder than it said 3939H by a very small margin.
Honestly, for every-day use I personally prefer the 5078P. I personally saw the black dialed version, but I would probably try to get the white dialed version since it has the enamel dial.
The reason why I prefer the 5078 is because of the clarity of sound, despite having a platinum case, the quality of the sound emanated from the case is crisp and offers good tones. I'm also reading in my Patek catalogue that it is possible to specify cathedral gongs on this piece. Honestly, to my somewhat limited experience (I don't own a minute repeater, although I've heard many of them) I cannot say that the cathedral gongs make that big of a difference to me. There's a bit more of a resonating chime, but I don't think it's significantly louder.
Another reason why I prefer the 5078P is because it feels like an everyday watch. This is a minute repeater designed to be worn everyday (it feels like it can be worn everyday) and seems to be a watch that can sustain everyday usage. It's even an automatic! The dial is attractive, Roman numerals with leaf hands is a mainstay in Patek history.
Stout traditionalists will state that the classic piece that will be coveted by collector's will be the 3939H, which I agree is a fantastic watch. Breguet hands, breguet numerals, the classic sized case (I have a small wrist, so small cases work well on me), and even a tourbillon, which is the cherry on top. The sound of the 3939 is very good and very crisp, it's just not quite as loud as the 5078. I have no fault with the 3939's sound, but I do prefer the sound of the 5078 simply because it seems louder.
But to me, I personally think if I had both of these watches, I would end up using the 5078P more often, it gives me the impression it is a more robust watch. Fortunately for me, I don't have this problem yet.
Another watch to consider is the 5074. If you like the 5070 chronograph, the 5074 has a virtually identical case and also feels like a watch that can be worn everyday.
Conclusion; if you're going to wear this watch somewhat often (2-3 days a week or more) then you should probably get the 5078. If you're only going to take it out for special occasions (special dinners, anniversaries, weddings, corporate takeovers, and major events) then you're better off with the more impressive 3939H.
I envy you greatly, I hope one day I have this problem!
5078P white dial or 3939H??
Seen, heard, and handled both of these...
Interested