WHAT IS SPECIAL
What kind of watch would the head of Patek Philippe choose to wear? For former president Philippe Stern, the answer was the Ref. 3940.
Since its introduction in 1985, the 3940 remained in production for nearly two decades, evolving through three series while retaining its enduring appeal. It stands at the threshold between vintage and modern Patek Philippe, opening a new chapter for the perpetual calendar through rigorous thinking and restrained expression.
First, the dial. The 3940 abandoned the day and month aperture display used on references such as the 1518 and 3448, and instead redefined the visual language of the automatic perpetual calendar through a balanced three-register layout. The sub-dials at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock respectively display the month and leap year, the date and moon phase, and the day and 24-hour indication. Each register serves a dual function, allowing the dial to remain compact, orderly and highly legible. The open space at 12 o’clock is balanced by a clean, sharply executed Patek Philippe signature. As a result, although the watch is mechanically complex, its visual presence is remarkably simple and modern.
The pursuit of elegance and thinness also extended to the movement. The 3940 is powered by the Cal. 240Q, whose off-centre micro-rotor is integrated into the movement rather than stacked above it, significantly reducing overall thickness. To compensate for the smaller rotor’s reduced winding mass, Patek Philippe used 22k gold, achieving greater density within a smaller volume.
By quietly containing the complexity of a perpetual calendar and the convenience of automatic winding within a case scarcely thicker than a Calatrava, the 3940 never presents complication for complication’s sake.
That, perhaps, is the true charm of the Ref. 3940.