An extremely important Grand Complication. The former Patek President's personal watch of choice has become a defining neo-vintage model that bridges the gap between Pateks rare, bulkier early complications, with the sleeker versions of what they are creating today. Below are just some of the reasons why every serious collector and auction house has ear-marked the 3940.

Throughout its production (1985 - 2007), the reference 3940 remained the slimmest and most technically superior perpetual calendar in the world. At a mere 8.4mm in thickness, the watch still manages to pack in automatic winding, thanks to the micro-rotor with 22ct gold oscillating weight. 

The ultra-slim base calibre 240 was first introduced in 1977. By 1985 Patek Philippe had crafted the 240Q, a version with perpetual calendar and moon phase, while keeping the calibre height to a mere 3.75mm. Patek's master watchmakers use hardened steel for the calendar's paper-thin inter-layered web of levers, springs and cams, ensuring durability and reliability to go along with its sleek profile. The calibre 240Q is still made to this very day, 40 years on. 

A feature of this model (late second-series) that collectors often cite as evidence of Patek's supremely discreet style, is the merest blush of a shadow in the lower half of the 24-hour dial, indicating night-time hours, but without drawing the eye from the otherwise uniform opaline dial. Curved dauphin hands and classical Calatrava dial indices are in solid yellow gold, indicated by the Sigma Dial shown by the tiny Greek σ marking at the dial's lower edge. Note also the lack of accent in Geneve, identifying that this dial was made by the noted Singer company (compared with the Stern Creations dial company).

Supplied with its correct spare solid gold case-back, embossed Patek Philippe warranty certificate dated October 1992 (from the family Jewellers Seddiqi in the Emirates), and dedicated winding box.