Patek Philippe

• cal. R27 PS automatic lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 39 jewels, gyromax balance, free sprung regulator, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions, 22k gold micro-rotor • white enamel dial, roman numerals, subsidiary seconds • circular case with sloped bezel, sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • platinum Patek Philippe buckle

The movement is running while cataloguing, all functions are operational and the sound of minute repeater is very clear. Dial in a well preserved condition. Case slightly scuffed to the surface from normal wear. Overall this is an extremely rare piece in a well preserved condition with this unique particularity of having the original certificate from Beyer Chronométrie SA.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collects the property in the country of sale."

This Patek Philippe platinum watch is the only one retailed by Beyer out of three known in the market. It was most probably made on special request for one of Patek Philippe's most prestigious retailers, who would no doubt be recognized worldwide by watch connoisseurs.

The ref. 3979 represents the first automatic minute repeating wristwatch to be produced by Patek Philippe. Launched as the successor of ref. 2524/1, the first serial numbers started with 1,904,000, the vast majority being cased in yellow gold. Originally made to celebrate the company's 150th anniversary in 1989, production of this model continued subsequently, but is now discontinued. The movement featuring calibre R27 PS impresses not only by numbering 342 parts, but also by incorporating the micro rotor automatic winding mechanism. The minute repeating mechanism uses 'Cathedral gongs', so called because their long length created a deeper sound and particularly long reverberation. The length of the gong in a standard repeating mechanism corresponds to almost precisely one turn in the movement whereas those of the 'Cathedral' mechanism exceed the case circumference, as a result a much richer and fuller timbre is achieved for this exceptional piece. It is interesting to notice as well that the present example is also featuring an enamel dial made by Donzé, Le Locle, which no longer produces for Patek Philippe. All these technical and aesthetic characteristics make this ref. 3979 retailed by Beyer a highly collects able piece for watch collects ors and enthusiasts.

Reference 3979 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 320.