Patek Philippe Minute Repeater

About this reference

Patek Philippe produced the Reference 3979 between 1989 and 2002, launching it to commemorate the brand's 150th anniversary. Collectors prioritize this reference as the first automatic minute repeater in the manufacturer's history, powered by the 27-jewel Caliber R 27 PS. The watch features a 33mm case and a white cream enamel dial with Roman numerals and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock. While produced in yellow, rose, and white gold, the platinum variant is the rarest, with total production across all metals estimated at approximately 100 units. On the secondary market, the Reference 3979 typically commands prices between $350,000 and $550,000 depending on metal and condition. A notable auction result occurred in 2023 when a platinum example sold for approximately $520,000. The reference was eventually succeeded by the larger Reference 5078, making the 3979 the definitive vintage-sized modern repeater.