Patek Philippe built its reputation over 150 years on hand-finished mechanical movements. Putting the Patek Philippe name on a quartz watch meant vouching for a technology that had just gutted the Swiss industry and that most collectors considered disposable. Engraving "Patek Philippe Genève" on it was a statement of ownership: we made this, we stand behind it. Patek Philippe was in the quartz business earlier than most people assume. The house was part of the Swiss consortium that developed the Beta 21 movement, and in 1970 it sold that movement in a gold case as the Ref. 3587.
The dial is a warm champagne gold, ruled with a hairline border like a wedding invitation. The shape is less about the era it was produced. The lines are borrowed from 1925 Geneva, the Gondolo, and classic Edwardian- and Art Deco-era. A reason we believe the watch has aged better than almost anything else Patek sold in those years. The diamonds are set in two rows down the sides of the case, with single stones at twelve and six and one each at three and nine. The case weighs forty-two grams. That is roughly the weight of a small hen's egg, light on the wrist for a watch whose maker carries serious weight.
Unlike Patek’s well-known sports watches of the era, the 3894J was the sort that belonged in the private dining rooms of Geneva banks, aboard a Gulfstream bound for Gstaad, and private collections rather than mainstream display. Ultra-thin quartz watches like the 3894J were status symbols for elite buyers who wanted absolute accuracy wrapped in traditional, high-end Genevan goldsmithing. We love pieces that have already lived one remarkable life and are ready to begin another.
Maker: Patek Philippe
Model: 3894J
Year: 1980s
Material: 18k Yellow Gold and Diamonds
Dial: Gold
Case Measurement: H 33 x W 30mm
Movement: Quartz
Weight: 42 Grams
Size: Adjustable, Fits Up to 6.75" Wrist
Made in Switzerland
All vintage and pre-owned watches sold by Stephanie Windsor are guaranteed to be genuine and authentic. We also guarantee the proper functioning of your watch’s mechanical movement for one (1) year from the date of purchase. Our warranty does not cover damage resulting from accidents, misuse, neglect, water damage or normal wear and tear. Please note that we do not guarantee waterproofing on vintage or pre-owned timepieces. We therefore do not recommend submerging your timepiece in water or any liquid.
