73 Patek Philippe An incredibly rare, absolutely collectible and important, Perpetual Calendar, moon phases, wristwatch in yellow gold, with box, Certificate of Origin and extract, reference 3946.

Estimate: € 30,000 –⁠ 60,000

An exceedingly rare and historically significant timepiece, the Patek Philippe reference 3946 stands as one of the most elusive perpetual calendar wristwatches ever produced by the brand. Introduced in the 1980s, it shares the same architecture as the legendary reference 3940 but remains virtually absent from the auction market, with only one other known example appearing publicly more than 25 years ago with 3 movement numbers away from the present one. This watch, preserved in great condition, represents a truly special opportunity to acquire a model whose production numbers were undoubtedly extremely limited. Encased in 18-carat yellow gold, its 35 mm case embodies the elegant and timeless proportions that define Patek Philippe’s most revered dress watches. The silvered dial is configured with a beautifully balanced layout: a subsidiary dial at 9 o’clock indicating the day of the week and 24-hour scale, a counterpart at 3 o’clock displaying the month and four-year cycle, and a moon phase and date indication at 6 o’clock. Distinguishing this reference is its fully integrated woven gold bracelet. The watch is further accompanied by its Certificate of Origin signed Huber dated 1989 and further accompanied by its extract from the archives. Given the provenance of the retailer, the present dial showcases a correct German calendar. A true connoisseur’s timepiece, this reference 3946 is an outstanding acquisition for any collector seeking an ultra-rare and historically significant Patek Philippe perpetual calendar.