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History of Patek Philippe watches

The Patek Philippe story began under the name Patek, Czapek & Cie. The brand was founded in Geneva in 1839 by watchmaker, Francois Czapek and businessman, Antoine Norbert de Patek. Meanwhile, French horologist, Jean Adrien Philippe, was hard at work innovating the keyless winding mechanism that would go on to be used in the brand’s early pocket watches.

Following the split of Patek, Czapek & Cie, Patek established his own brand in 1845 under the name Patek & Cie. The businessman began working closely with Philippe, which resulted in another name change just six year later to recognise the Frenchman’s contribution. In 1851, Patek, Philippe & Cie was born, a name which stuck until 2009, when the comma was dropped and the brand became known as simply, Patek Philippe. 

Since its beginning, the brand has been known for its innovative approach to watchmaking. In fact, in 1868, it produced the first Swiss wristwatch in a design created for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary.

This reputation has continued to be built on with more firsts in the field and various patents and inventions under its belt. These have included patents for precision regulator, perpetual calendar mechanism, the first double chronograph and the first split second chronograph to name but a few. While many of these innovations can still be seen in the models available today, they are that much more apparent in those from the brand’s past, which is why second hand Patek Philippe watches are highly sought after by timepiece collectors. 

Not only have these innovations contributed to the advancement of precision timekeeping, they have solidified the brand’s position in the market as one of the greatest watch brands in the world. Understandably, this has welcomed orders and interest from many of the elites, including royalty and those with high celebrity status and influence. 

Over the years, the brand has developed its range of timepieces, which now features everything from rare one-off designs, to sought after collections including models desired by every collector out there. 

In recent years, Patek Philippe has turned its attention to research and development, resulting in a modern day collection of technically advanced, yet beautifully designed watches for men and women, and which continue to carry every second of the brand’s rich history and legacy.

Why buy a pre-owned Patek Philippe watch?

Patek Philippe is one of the most acclaimed luxury watch brands in the market, which is why no matter whether new or pre-owned, its watches are incredibly desirable. But as well as this reputation, the watches in its collections are also some of the most advanced out there, which only adds to their desirability. 

This is because, throughout its history, the brand has focused its efforts on innovation. Its watches are some of the first to have been fitted with a number of complications and features that many of today’s wearers expect from their timepieces. Not only this, but there are also features exclusive to the brand and that help make its pieces unique. Some of these features include the coveted annual calendar, split second chronograph and minute repeater. 

Therefore, many models from its past are highly sought after by collectors for their role in creating timekeeping history. On top of innovation, quality has remained at the core of the brand’s manufacturing process, so no matter how old the piece, it has been designed to be passed down through generations. Every piece also benefits from the brand’s commitment to repairing its own watches, however old they may be.. This offers purchasers of a pre-owned Patek Philippe timepiece with peace of mind that their watch will receive a service provided by some of the most skilled watchmakers in the industry.

On top of this unique proposition, every second hand Patek Philippe watch purchased at Hamilton & Inches also comes with a two year warranty, and an after-sales service provided by our own in-house team. 

Essentially, Patek Philippe watches are not only a designer accessory, but are also an investment. They represent much more than precision timekeeping, and instead, carry charm and character that helps tell the story of Patek Philippe’s rise to the greatest watch brand in the world. 


Top Patek Philippe watch collections

While Patek Philippe’s contribution to the watch world has been large, its collections of watches have remained mostly refined. This has enabled the brand to retain an allure of exclusivity, as well as really perfect its craft in each individual differentiator. 

The Calatrava collection has become the essence of the Patek Philippe brand. As one of the longest in existence, it now enjoys legendary status among watch lovers across the globe. The circular watch face presents a timeless design that is instantly recognisable and synonymous with the modern day dress watch. 

The Grand Complications collection showcases the brand and its values in the truest form. It features watches fitted with only the best signature complications and innovative functions, such as the minute repeater, split second chronograph and perpetual calendar. As a result, many of the models in the collection have gone one to become some of the most prestigious in luxury timekeeping. 

In recent years, the Nautilus collection has risen in popularity. Upon release in the 70s, the model was a true disrupter to the sports watch market, thanks to its shape, size and simplicity. Today, the horizontal embossing that appears on the watches’ dials is instantly recognisable. Combining a touch of luxury packaged in a more laid back style than what is typically associated with the brand, Nautilus timepieces are perfectly suited to the modem day wearer. 

Similarly, the Aquanaut collection also features watches with a striking design that have disrupted the norm and garnered interest from many watch enthusiasts. The rounded octagonal bezel coupled with innovative strap designs that only add to the high quality and durability of the timepieces makes the collection an undeniable favourite. 

While these are just some of the top Patek Philippe watch collections, its others are equally as impressive due to their history, design and functionality. These other watch collections include: 

Complications

Gondolo 

Golden Ellipse

Twenty-4 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the least expensive pre-owned Patek Philippe?

The price of any pre-owned Patek Philippe watch is subject to a variety of factors, including external and internal damage, functionality and performance. While the brand’s high quality standards help ensure models are designed to last a long period of time, individual wear and maintenance can have an impact. Therefore, pre-owned models with a low price tag may be compromising quality.

At Hamilton & Inches, we always advise purchasing a pre-owned Patek Philippe watch through a trusted retailer like ourselves. While we do ensure all models we sell are in pristine condition, our experts can advise you on the best options for your budget too. For more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Do Patek Philippe watches hold their value?

Yes, Patek Philippe watches do tend to hold their value, with many even appreciating over time. This is thanks to the exclusivity of certain models and overall desirability of the brand. Therefore, a Patek Philippe watch is a great investment piece.

As well as its financial value, the brand’s high quality standards ensure watches are made to last, so can even be passed down through generations. Naturally, this also adds sentimental value to each pre-owned watch.

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