To some folks, the value may be affected, meaning if

they had a choice, what would they prefer? Probably the one that was original, but I'm sure there may be exceptions which may alter that perception. Personally, I don't pay much attention to first, second or thirds series....it's a 3970. And whether it has a snap back, screw back, open back, etc. doesn't really bother me or affect my decision to own it. If, on the other hand, I'm building a collection of 3970's and all variants...different story altogether.

All sorts of parts are routinely changed during a watches' lifetime, crowns, hands, screws, gears, dials refinished or replaced, and even cases at times. All service about the watch is kept by Patek to verify what has been done.

Is this a choice that you have made or has Patek recommended the case be changed due to some type of damage? This has got to be an expensive venture.

Locked login to reply

💰1727 Marketplace Listings for Patek Philippe›

A question on 3970

By: sihe : May 26th, 2011-23:42

Will the value of a 3970 second series be affected if its case and crystal are replaced by Patek due to owner request? By replacing the case, the original hallmarks on the 4 lugs are no longer available as a result of the new case does not have those same...

Why did you have this idea of replacing .....

By: tic-toc : May 27th, 2011-04:54

this case ?? its interesting the hallmarks doesnt exsist on the newly replaced case. Did you enquire as to why ?? What was wrong with the original case ?? As to your question .... regarding value !! Put it this way, it wont make you any richer due to your...

Thanks Tic-toc

By: sihe : May 27th, 2011-11:29

Hi Tic-toc, I didn't replace the case. The seller replaced it but has the receipt from an AD to show for it. It is a nice watch and everything is original and matches up. The only issue is the hallmarks on the 4 lugs are missing. I am not sure if all the ...

To some folks, the value may be affected, meaning if

By: whit : May 27th, 2011-08:38

Thanks Whit

By: sihe : May 27th, 2011-11:34

Hi Whit: The seller replaced the case but have the AD receipt to show. Everything else about the watch is great. The missing hallmarks on the 4 lugs are the only issue. If it were not for the missing hallmarks, I would not have scrutinized the receipt to ...