Patek Philippe, a family-owned Swiss luxury watch company, has been at the forefront of horological innovation since its founding in 1839. The brand's commitment to craftsmanship, artistry, and technical excellence has made it a symbol of prestige and elegance. Patek Philippe watches are known for their unique complications, such as the annual calendar and moon phase, and the use of high-quality materials like gold, platinum, and leather.
Patek Philippe history has been associated with numerous notable figures, including royalty, celebrities, and business leaders. The company's headquarters and main production facilities are located in Geneva, Switzerland, where it also maintains the Patek Philippe Museum, showcasing its rich horological heritage. Currently led by the fourth generation of the Stern family, Patek Philippe continues to set the standard for luxury watchmaking, creating timepieces that are cherished for generations
Any comprehensive Patek Philippe review would highlight the brand's reputation for exquisite craftsmanship and horological innovation, evident in its diverse range of watch collections. From the sporty Aquanaut and iconic Nautilus to the classic Calatrava and the elegant Twenty~4, each collection embodies the excellence consistently praised in Patek Philippe reviews. A thorough Patek Philippe review would undoubtedly emphasize the technical prowess displayed in the Complications and Grand Complications series, while also noting the unique design aesthetics of the Golden Ellipse and Gondolo collections. Collectively, these collections, often lauded in Patek Philippe reviews, represent the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary style.
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut, introduced in 1997, represents the brand's modern and sporty side. With its distinctive rounded octagonal shape and embossed dial pattern, the Aquanaut offers a fresh take on luxury sports watches. The collection features a variety of models in stainless steel and precious metals, catering to both men and women who appreciate an active lifestyle without compromising on elegance.
The Patek Philippe Aquanaut collection has evolved to include chronograph models and dual time zone complications, further enhancing its appeal to watch enthusiasts. The signature "Tropical" strap, made of composite material, provides both comfort and durability. With its blend of casual sophistication and technical excellence, the Aquanaut continues to be a popular choice among younger collectors and those seeking a versatile timepiece for everyday wear.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava, first introduced in 1932, epitomizes the essence of timeless elegance in watchmaking. Known for its clean lines and understated beauty, the Calatrava has become synonymous with classic dress watches. The collection features a range of models, from simple time-only pieces to those with additional complications, all while maintaining the signature Calatrava aesthetic of refined simplicity.
Throughout its history, the Patek Philippe Calatrava has seen various design iterations, including different case sizes, dial designs, and material choices. However, the core principles of elegance and simplicity remain constant. Many Calatrava models feature the iconic Clous de Paris bezel, adding a subtle texture to the watch's profile. With its enduring appeal and versatility, the Calatrava continues to be a cornerstone of Patek Philippe's offerings and a favorite among connoisseurs of fine timepieces.
The Patek Philippe Complications collection showcases the brand's technical expertise in creating watches with additional functions beyond simple timekeeping. These timepieces feature a range of complications such as annual calendars, dual time zones, moon phases, and chronographs. The collection demonstrates Patek Philippe's ability to combine complex mechanisms with elegant design, offering watch enthusiasts both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Patek Philippe Complications watches are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each additional feature is seamlessly integrated into the overall design. The collection includes a variety of styles, from sporty to dressy, catering to different preferences while maintaining the brand's high standards of quality and precision. These timepieces serve as a testament to Patek Philippe's commitment to advancing the art of watchmaking while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
The Patek Philippe Grand Complications collection represents the pinnacle of horological achievement, featuring the most complex and sophisticated timepieces in the brand's repertoire. These watches incorporate multiple high-level complications such as perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, tourbillons, and split-seconds chronographs. Each piece in this collection is a masterpiece of engineering and artistry, showcasing Patek Philippe's unparalleled expertise in haute horlogerie.
Patek Philippe Grand Complications watches are often considered the ultimate collector's items, prized for their rarity and technical complexity. The creation of these timepieces requires exceptional skill and patience, with some models taking years to complete. Despite their intricate mechanisms, Grand Complications watches maintain Patek Philippe's signature elegance and wearability, making them not just impressive technical achievements but also functional works of art for the wrist.
The Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse, introduced in 1968, stands out with its distinctive elliptical case shape inspired by the golden ratio. This unique design offers a refreshing departure from traditional round watches, appealing to those who appreciate artistic and philosophical elements in their timepieces. The Golden Ellipse collection has evolved over the years, incorporating various materials and dial designs while maintaining its signature shape.
Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse watches are known for their minimalist elegance, often featuring clean dials with simple hour markers. The collection includes models in precious metals such as gold and platinum, some adorned with diamonds or featuring complications like moon phases. Despite being one of Patek Philippe's more unconventional designs, the Golden Ellipse has cultivated a dedicated following among collectors who value its understated sophistication and unique aesthetic.
The Patek Philippe Gondolo collection pays homage to the brand's Art Deco heritage, featuring watches with distinctive geometric case shapes and elegant dial designs. Named after Patek Philippe's Brazilian distributor in the early 20th century, the Gondolo line embodies a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern watchmaking techniques. These timepieces often feature rectangular, tonneau, or cushion-shaped cases, offering a stylish alternative to traditional round watches.
Patek Philippe Gondolo watches are characterized by their refined aesthetics and attention to detail. The collection includes models with various complications, from simple time-only pieces to more complex watches with calendar functions or power reserve indicators. With its unique design language and high-quality craftsmanship, the Gondolo collection appeals to collectors who appreciate the artistic side of watchmaking and desire a timepiece that stands out from the crowd.
The Patek Philippe Nautilus, first introduced in 1976, has become one of the most iconic luxury sports watches in the world. Designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, the Nautilus features a distinctive porthole-inspired case and an integrated bracelet, creating a seamless and elegant profile. The collection has expanded over the years to include various complications and materials, but the core design elements remain true to the original concept.
Patek Philippe Nautilus watches are renowned for their combination of sporty aesthetics and refined elegance. The collection includes models in stainless steel, gold, and even platinum, with complications ranging from simple date displays to chronographs and annual calendars. The Nautilus's enduring popularity has made it one of the most sought-after timepieces in the luxury watch market, often commanding premium prices and long waiting lists.
The Patek Philippe Twenty~4 collection, launched in 1999, was specifically designed to cater to the modern, active woman. Initially featuring a distinctive rectangular case and quartz movement, the collection has since evolved to include round cases and mechanical movements. The Twenty~4 line combines elegance with everyday wearability, offering a range of styles suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Patek Philippe Twenty~4 watches are characterized by their sleek designs and attention to detail. Many models feature diamond-set bezels or hour markers, adding a touch of luxury to the timepieces. The collection includes both quartz and automatic models, catering to different preferences in terms of movement types. With its blend of sophistication and practicality, the Twenty~4 collection has become a popular choice among women who appreciate fine watchmaking and versatile style.
The price range for Patek Philippe watches varies depending on the model, age, condition, and rarity. Patek Philippe watches, such as the Golden Ellipse, can start at around $3,000 used, while more complicated models like the Nautilus or Grand Complications can command prices in the millions on the secondary market. At Bob's Watches, we offer a wide selection of Patek Philippe timepieces to suit different budgets and preferences.
disc. = discontinued
Brand | Model Number | Patek Philippe Retail Price | Pre-Owned Prices (Approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
Patek Philippe Aquanaut | 5968A-001 | disc. | N/A |
Patek Philippe Calatrava | 5227G-001 | N/A | N/A |
Patek Philippe Nautilus | 7118/1A | N/A | N/A |
Patek Philippe watches are renowned for their precision, elegance, and unparalleled craftsmanship, embodying the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking. Each model is meticulously crafted with features that exemplify technical mastery and luxurious design, from intricate perpetual calendars to sophisticated moon phase indicators. Whether for everyday wear or special occasions, Patek Philippe watches offer functionality and style that stand the test of time, making them a coveted choice among discerning watch enthusiasts. Patek Philippe watches are renowned for their exceptional features, which include:
Every Patek Philippe watch movement is meticulously crafted in-house, ensuring the highest level of precision and reliability. The brand's dedication to horological excellence is evident in the intricate design and finishing of each movement, which often features complications such as chronographs, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters.
Patek Philippe, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, offers a range of watch bands that match the exceptional quality of their timepieces. The brand's leather straps are crafted from premium hides, including alligator and calfskin, and are available in various colors and textures to complement different watch styles. For a more robust and contemporary look, Patek Philippe provides metal bracelets in materials such as stainless steel, gold, and platinum, each meticulously finished to ensure both comfort and durability. The brand also offers rubber straps for some of its sportier models, combining practicality with elegance for active wear. Regardless of the material chosen, each Patek Philippe watch band is designed to integrate seamlessly with the watch case, enhancing the overall aesthetic and wearing experience of these prestigious timepieces.
Patek Philippe's annual calendar complication is renowned for its precision engineering and user-friendly design, often incorporating additional features such as moon phase indicators or power reserve displays. This innovative mechanism exemplifies Patek Philippe's commitment to creating timepieces that combine technical excellence with practical functionality, enhancing the overall value and appeal of their watches to discerning collectors and enthusiasts.
Patek Philippe watch dials are known for their elegance and legibility, often featuring intricate designs and finishes. From classic lacquered dials to more elaborate guilloché, enamel, or skeleton dials, Patek Philippe's attention to detail and craftsmanship is evident in every piece. The brand's artisans employ traditional techniques alongside cutting-edge technology to create dials that are not only visually stunning but also highly functional. Patek Philippe's commitment to excellence is further exemplified by their use of applied hour markers, meticulously crafted hands, and perfectly balanced subdials, ensuring that each watch face is a miniature work of art that stands the test of time.
The moon phase complication, found on select Patek Philippe models, displays the current phase of the moon. This poetic complication adds a touch of celestial beauty to the watch, with the moon phase disc often featuring intricate detailing and realistic depictions of the lunar surface. Patek Philippe's moon phase complications are renowned for their exceptional accuracy, with some models requiring adjustment only once every 122 years. This level of precision, combined with the aesthetic appeal of the complication, exemplifies Patek Philippe's commitment to blending horological expertise with artistic craftsmanship, making their moon phase watches highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
"As a luxury watch collector, I hold the Patek Philippe watch collection in the highest regard for its unparalleled craftsmanship and enduring value. Each Patek Philippe watch represents a legacy of meticulous watchmaking that aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering only the finest timepieces to our discerning customers. Our clientele appreciates the rarity and intricate beauty of these watches, recognizing them as not merely timepieces but as investments in horological art that signify prestige and tradition."
- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches
Bob's Watches stands out as a premier destination for both vintage and contemporary timepieces, offering an authenticated inventory that ensures you purchase with confidence. The company is renowned for its transparent pricing model, which clearly displays both buy and sell prices, making it a trusted marketplace for watch enthusiasts. Bob's Watches emphasizes exceptional customer service, with knowledgeable staff who are always ready to assist with any inquiries or purchases. Additionally, their commitment to sustainability through the resale of luxury watches not only provides customers with exceptional value but also promotes an environmentally conscious approach to luxury.
If you are looking to sell your Patek Philippe, we invite you to talk to our team of experienced experts. They will be able to provide you with the most competitive prices in the market, ensuring that you receive the highest possible value for your prestigious timepiece. Parting with your luxury watch becomes as effortless and rewarding as the moments it has tracked for you.
The most affordable Patek Philippe watch is typically the Calatrava, with pre-owned prices starting at around $20,000 - $30,000.
The Grandmaster Chime (Ref. 6300G), featuring 20 complications and over 1,500 parts, is considered the most complicated Patek Philippe watch.
The Grandmaster Chime (Ref. 6300A-010) currently holds the record for the most expensive Patek Philippe watch, selling at auction for $31.19 million in 2019.
The reason why Patek Philippe watches are expensive is due to their exceptional craftsmanship, use of high-quality materials, and the brand's rich history and prestige.
Yes, Patek Philippe watches are known for retaining their value over time, with some rare models even appreciating in value.
You can purchase a pre-owned Patek Philippe watch from reputable dealers like Bob's Watches or join a waitlist for the chance to buy a new timepiece from an authorized retailer.
Patek Philippe is pronounced "pah-tek fee-leep" (pah-tek as in "pa" and "tech", fee-leep as in "fee" and "leap").
To avoid counterfeit Patek Philippe watches, only buy from authorized retailers or reputable pre-owned dealers. Look for inconsistencies in quality, engraving, and documentation.
Patek Philippe produces around 60,000 watches per year, maintaining its exclusivity and high standards of craftsmanship.
The Nautilus, particularly the Ref. 5711/1A, is currently considered the most popular Patek Philippe model.