There are only a few watch brands in the world that boast global prominence and popularity – earned through years of innovation and quality design, timeless style, and a commitment to a long-lasting legacy.
Patek Philippe is one such brand that combines an extensive history with watches of the finest make and design. Founded in 1839, the very foundation of Patek Philippe is built on the high standards of Swiss watchmaking, combining the skills of two individuals who were both renowned for their craft and exquisite attention to detail. Patek Philippe is recognised today as one of the oldest and most coveted watchmaking brands, favoured by A-list celebrities and notable figures, including, among others, Queen Victoria herself.
Today, the brand is one that can largely only be found on the second-hand market for most buyers, owing to the incredible popularity and demand for each timepiece, not to mention the price tag of an authentic Patek Philippe piece. In this blog, we’re sharing a few tips on how and why to invest in Patek Philippe, if watches and timepieces are your thing, in addition to sharing information on what makes the brand so high in value and status.
First, to the history of Patek Philippe and how it became the prominent luxury brand it is today.
How Patek Philippe Became Such a Prominent Luxury Brand
Patek Philippe was, as a concept, born in 1839 – however, it did not become the successful brand it is today until 1945 when Antoni Patek teamed up with watchmaker Adrien Philippe following a series of failed partnerships with other business partners.
The skills of the founding businessmen came together to create a brand that valued both quality watchmaking and unique, intricate mechanics – bridging the two so that every watch and piece that was created utilised the power of complicated movement amid the timeless style of a luxurious design.
The brand first rose to global prominence in the same year as the launch of the Patek Philippe name, with Queen Victoria acquiring and wearing a keyless pendant watch created by the watchmakers. From there, Patek Philippe continued to create and design innovative pieces, branching out into wristwatches from hanging pocket watches around the mid-to-late 1960s.
As we track and trace the history of Patek Philippe, there are countless nods to famous faces and notable customers – however, what really stands out is the blend of innovation and exceptional quality, both in build and in materials. In 2023, it was noted that nine of the top 10 most expensive watches ever sold at auction were Patek Philippe pieces, citing the incredible value of an authentic timepiece that holds the Patek Philippe brand.
But what is it that makes this brand such a good investment?
Why a Patek Philippe Timepiece Is a Good Investment
There are a number of things that make an authentic Patek Philippe watch a good investment. The first is the fact that Patek Philippe is cited as one of the oldest luxury watchmaking brands in the world, which has enjoyed a consistent presence at the forefront of the market, both historically and in modern times.
In fact, believe it or not, Patek Philippe is one of the most widely referenced luxury brands in modern pop culture and music, with artists including Cardi B and Travis Scott directly referencing the brand in their music. Why? Because naming a brand like Patek Philippe solidifies their music and status in old money, as opposed to sticking with fresh and younger brands – something that forms a driving force in the popularity of Patek Philippe within modern culture and amid investment buyers.
To own an authentic Patek Philippe watch is akin to owning a piece of history, with the brand recognisable for its timeless style, aesthetic design, and value. As is the case with many luxury goods, demand far outweighs supply, ensuring that every timepiece sold fetches a high price that only increases further on the second-hand market.
This, paired with the exceptional quality, durability, and style of every Patek Philippe watch, ensures that, regardless of which collection you shop and which exact model you own, an authentic piece from the brand is an excellent investment. With that in mind, how and where should you sell a Patek Philippe to ensure a good return on your investment?
Tips for Selling a Patek Philippe
If you already own a Patek Philippe and want to sell it, the first and most important thing to do is secure a formal valuation. This service checks all of the authentication certificates linked to your watch and provides you with advice as to how much it is worth and how much you can sell it for.
Having the original packaging is crucial if you want to sell your Patek Philippe watch for the maximum amount – while selling to a reputable boutique reseller will both protect your sale and ensure that you get a fair amount.
Where to Buy an Authentic Patek Philippe
Buying a Patek Philippe is difficult if not impossible on the retail market, owing to the waitlists and exclusive pool of buyers to whom new pieces are generally released and sold. As such, if you want to buy a Patek Philippe watch, then you will need to do so via a reseller, be it an online company or a boutique store that’s local to you.
In London, some of the best boutique stores boast an ever-changing collection of luxury goods that you can browse in search of your perfect piece, with the team able to advise and ensure protection against your purchase in the form of proper authentication checks.
With so many counterfeit goods circulating the market, it is more important than ever to be vigilant – both in London and overseas. Only ever part with money when you are 100% certain about your purchase, and familiarise yourself with the authentication information relating to any timepiece or luxury good that you are purchasing.
