186 Patek Philippe Incredibly Rare and Limited Edition, Minute Repeater, Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Black Roman Porcelain Dial, With Box, Warranty and Extract from Archives, Made to Commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Patek Philippe, Reference 3979

Estimate: €220,000 –⁠ 440,000

Model: Minute Repeater
Reference: 3979
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1990
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: R27PS
Case N°: 2867026
Movement N°: 1904013
Dimensions: 33 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Box, Warranty, Extract from the Archives, Solid Caseback, Booklets and Additional Strap
Literature: This specific watch has been sold at Christie's “IMPORTANT WATCHES” Hong Kong Watch Auction the 27th of October 2003 as lot 1223 for HKD 1,071,750

In 1989, before commemorative anniversary models became commonplace, Patek Philippe didn’t just celebrate an anniversary—it honored a legacy. To mark its 150th year, the brand unveiled a collection of timepieces that were not merely limited editions but symbols of its enduring brilliance: true masterpieces, rare and breathtaking in their complexity. Among these exceptional creations were the monumental Caliber 89 and two remarkable minute repeaters: the Ref. 3974, with its perpetual calendar, and the Ref. 3979—an embodiment of pure horological art. As Patek’s first self-winding minute repeater, the Ref. 3979 represented a leap forward for the brand, encapsulating over a century of innovation and timeless elegance. It embodies refined elegance and minimalism, highlighting Patek Philippe’s unparalleled expertise in crafting high complications. Despite its intricate mechanics, the watch maintains a timeless and understated design, seamlessly blending tradition with modern innovation. Encased in a sleek 33 mm round case with architecturally inspired lugs reminiscent of vintage Patek Philippe minute repeaters, this reference was offered in platinum, white gold, pink gold, and yellow gold. With only around 100 pieces ever made, and just 24 publicly known, the 3979 stands as one of the rarest and most coveted modern repeaters from the brand. The cases of this reference can be divided into two batches: later versions featured cases crafted by the Geneva-based Atelier Reunis, identifiable by hallmark number 28. Notably, after the year 2000, Atelier Reunis no longer used this mark, switching instead to the oval PPC stamp. However, the earliest and most desirable cases, including this particular example, were created by the legendary case maker Jean-Pierre Hagmann. His initials, “JHP,” are proudly stamped inside the solid caseback, marking the watch as a true collector’s piece. Hagmann is revered for his expertise in crafting minute repeater cases, and his work on this reference further enhances its prestige. The dial, crafted from delicate porcelain and embellished with black Roman numerals, required an extraordinary level of skill. This material, often reserved for pocket watches due to its fragility, is a testament to the craftsmanship involved in creating this watch. The clean, crisp black lines on the dial, paired with its understated elegance, emphasize its rarity and significance in Patek Philippe’s history. Accompanied by its Certificate of Origin, the additional solid caseback, and a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming its production, this 3979 not only represents a marvel of horology that celebrates Patek Philippe’s 150th anniversary but also stands as one of the most important—and perhaps underrated—minute repeaters ever produced by the brand, a true testament to the art of watchmaking.