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Patek Phillipe Watch History
Patek Philippe started in 1839 when Antoine Norbert de Patek, a Polish watchmaker, partnered with Franciszek Czapek in Geneva, Switzerland. They saw growth when Jean Adrien Philippe introduced the keyless winding mechanism in 1851. This marked the beginning of Patek, Philippe & Cie. The company gained a reputation, for innovation with Queen Victorias purchase of a watch in 1851 and the creation of the first Swiss wristwatch in 1868 for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary. During the Great Depression in 1932 the Stern family took over Patek Philippe. Under their leadership they introduced the Calatrava watch, which later became a piece in their collection.
Noteworthy milestones include introducing the Gyromax balance in 1949 for enhanced timekeeping accuracy. In 1970 they led Switzerlands entry into quartz movement technology with Beta 21. Unveiled Gerald Gentas timeless Nautilus watch design, in 1976. The brand continues to produce timepieces knownfor their designs and technical mastery. They are celebrated for upholding watchmaking methods while embracing advancements.
PATEK PHILIPPE FAQ'S
- Craftsmanship: Check for exceptional craftsmanship with flawless finishing.
- Movement: The movement should be very smooth, a sign of high-quality mechanics.
- Engravings and Stamps: Look for precise and clear engravings and stamps on the watch.
- Documentation: Authentic watches will come with a certificate of authenticity and a warranty card, each matching the serial number on the watch.
- Price: Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, genuine Patek Philippe watches are typically very expensive.
- Seller Reputation: Purchase from reputable sellers or authorized dealers to avoid counterfeits.
The Patek Philippe Seal serves as a hallmark of excellence for the brand's watches, signifying top notch quality and craftsmanship in both design and technical aspects.
Patek Philippe manufactures around 60,000 watches each year.
Yes, Patek Philippe watches are mostly handmade. Skilled artisans carefully craft each watch, paying close attention to every detail. This process involves assembling the intricate movements and adding decorative finishes by hand, ensuring the high quality and precision that Patek Philippe is known for.
The Stern family owns Patek Philippe, with Thierry Stern serving as the president of the company since 2009.