3940 vs 5205

[pearson1995]

Hi everyone,

I’m hoping to pick up a 5205G blue dial soon, it will be my first Patek. I think it offers everything I want.

I do have my eye on another Patek however. One which currently isn’t in production, a 3940.

I know one is a PP and the other an AC, but of people that have owned or held both, how do they compare? Does one feel more special than the other?

I can’t help but think the 3940 is patek at its best, but the 5205 seems a bit more modern and luxurious.

What’s your opinions on the two?

[nyc2la]

If your wrist size isn’t too big (<7” or so), get the 3940. You’re right in your assessment that it is Patek at its best.

[Coolcamden]

Not feeling the 3940. To me it’s an old man old style looking watch. The 5205 blue is the optimal dress casual watch. Don’t forget the scallop lugs. Tick many boxes. Between the 2 I’d pick the 5205. Remember AC is an original Patek invention. If you still want a PP, the 5320 oozes best of everything.

[erics]

Depends what attracts you in PP. If you are genuinely into the brand and its history, 3940. If you wear PP for status and having the latest and greatest 5205.

For me it is 3940 all day every day. Alas, this ship has sailed price wise. Hope they come back down!

[Vipes]

I tried on the 3940 and it felt too small. With it being small and having subdials, it was very hard to read for me.

The 5205 has a more modern size and easier to read layout.

[vitalsigns]

Depends what attracts you in PP. If you want to think you're better than others by choosing an aficionado-accepted piece even if you prefer another piece, then by all means get the 3940.

If you genuinely want to own and wear a PP 5205, then get that one.

The 3940 is truly nice but it doesn't satisfy all preferences.

[ts3]

If I ever get a Patek calendar it may well be a 3940P as I like the classic size and dial layout. Years ago I saw it every day as a colleague wore it daily. My first Patek was its poor three-hand plus date sibling 3998P many years ago as well.

The 5205 is not for me for a number of reasons including that I don't like the fancy lugs and the dial layout. Not a big fan of the AC dial layouts in general. No matter which one I look at sth appears off in my eyes.

[subtona]

size is the first thing that comes to mind, especially thickness.

the 5205 will offer more wrist presence.
i don't know if a one off or more frequent but i have heard some issues with the windows lining up from another forum member.

The 3940 will remain satisfyingly under the radar, slim and unobtrusive. it is a special watch when considering it was Phillippe sterns daily watch. it is destined to be appreciated in the future.



my 2 cents the 3940 is the evolved choice.