Luxury Watch Spotlight: Patek Philippe
Posted on November 30, 2020
Patek Philippe is a legendary brand with a long pedigree of exceptional watchmaking. Whether you are an investor, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates fine watchmaking, there is no denying Patek Philippe watches are prestigious and timeless. In this post we will spotlight these “must-have” timepieces, and take a deeper dive into what makes them so unique and special.
What Makes a Patek Philippe Watch so Extraordinary?
Known in the watch world for producing high-end and highly complicated watches, Patek Philippe is considered one of the most respected luxury watchmakers in the world. Founded in 1839 in Switzerland and owned since 1932 by the Stern Family, they are also one of the oldest watchmakers. They have mastered every aspect of fine watchmaking: the hand winding two-hand watch, standard complications, the annual calendar, the minute repeater, and so on.
Since its inception, Patek Philippe received over 100 patents and invented over 20 basic calibers, marking important contributions to the watchmaking industry. The rich heritage combined with forward thinking and use of new materials, technologies and production methods makes the company so exceptional. The company itself uses that information in their slogan: “You never really own a Patek Philippe watch, you merely look after it for the next generation.” This is indicative of the reverence the company has internally for their product; the belief that they are making the most prestigious and luxurious timepieces in the world.
Winding a Patek Philippe Watch
Patek Philippe presents a wide range of models in multiple collections: mechanical movements, self-winding and quartz. The Calatrava, for example, has a mechanical movement. The Calatrava Ref. 96 (a vintage model launched in 1932) was produced to help the company get through the Great Depression and was manufactured for more than 40 years. It is wound by the crown in a clockwise direction and by rotating the crown until the tension is felt. The tensioned mainspring drives the wheels inside the watch as it gradually relaxes. The movements of the self-winding timepieces, such as the watches from the Complications Collection, are wound by a rotor, which is set in motion by wrist movement. The rotors are crafted from high karat gold as the specific gravity optimizes the kinetic energy yield.
Patek Philippe’s two most sought-after models
Any timepiece from Patek Philippe is a discreet, luxury item for those who can invest in its quiet sophistication. For some, it is lacking in the bling that is popular these days, but Patek Philippe is known for its timeless qualities. The Nautilus and the Aquanaut are currently the most desired models with up to a 12-year wait time at an official boutique and authorized retailer. Both are based on the same case and bracelet, yet with a different movement, complications and 240-based micro-rotor calibre.
As we know, the Nautilus has risen to legend status since its launch in the early ’70s. The Nautilus Perpetual Calendar ref. 5740 is the most expensive and most complicated watch in the regular collection, averaging about $112,000. It is made of white gold and features a complex, fragile QP movement, which is far from the original work of this watch. Most of the sports models are now listed around $80,000 in the secondary market meaning a 95% premium over retails. In 2016, the Nautilus celebrated its 40th anniversary with two unique, limited editions timepieces: one in white gold and the other one presented in platinum (the design practically unchanged). Both models offer discerning buyers a choice of case materials. The watch is available in rose gold, platinum and stainless steel. The distinctive embossed face is available in blue, white and grey. The dial you choose makes your watch unique.
The Aquanaut has been turning the heads of the sporty, trendy, and chic watch buyer since 1997. The Aquanaut comes in more sporty variations with green, red, or black tropical strap options.
Where Can I Buy a Patek Philippe Watch?
At Jewelry-N-Loan, we specialize in a variety of luxury watch brands including Patek Philippe, Rolex, Cartier, and Audemars Piguet. We offer our customers a wide selection of merchandise for sale at prices typically reserved for dealers in the trade. We can also help you sell or pawn your Patek Philippe watch or any other luxury timepiece. Please contact us online today or give us a call at (949) 396-0898!
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