Dial: giltCalibre: cal. 240Q automatic, 27 jewelsMovement number: 770'287Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on backCase number: 2'831'431Closure: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckleDimensions: 36mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe presentation case and Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on December 2nd, 1986

MVT: running at the time of cataloguing. Other functions advancing. CASE: In very attractive and original condition. There is surface wear to the case and with two very crisp hallmarks to the band. Beyer reference number scratched to the underside of the lugs. Overall good condition, the hallmarks clear and well defined. DIAL: in very good condition. First generation dial where the 24 hour dial is tarnished in the lower half. The watch has not been tested to determine the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Patek Philippe as a maker has always managed to excel in two areas in particular. Elegance is the first and paramount to this is the second, understatedness. If the present lot embodies any two attributes it is these.  This complicated watch features the automatic perpetual calendar calibre 240Q and, given the complex nature of this watch is housed, in a surprisingly thin 18k yellow gold case. This 3940 is one of the earliest iterations belonging to the first series in a production of approximately 1300 pieces. The dial, made by Stern Creations, is a glossy caramel in contrast to the slightly darker frosted subsidiary dials at 3 and 9.  The watch is a particularly rare example of the reference featuring the calendar in German but in addition to this the dial is double signed by Swiss retailer Beyer. The watch is also presented at auction in fantastic condition accompanied by its original presentation case and yellow gold buckle.