Brand Spotlight: Patek Philippe

 

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Regarded as one of the most prominent luxury watch companies in the world, Patek Philippe watches are elite, elegant, and highly sought after. With more than 160 years under it’s belt, Patek Philippe remains one of the most prestigious and exclusive watch brands. But, how much do you actually know about these special watches? 

The men behind Patek Philippe.
Antoni Patek, a polish watchmaker, started making pocket watches in 1839 with his Czech partner, Franciszek Czapek. They separated in 1844 and Patek joined forces with French watchmaker, Adrien Philippe, to create the brand now known as Patek Philippe. 

Patek Philippe, a true a pioneer in the field.
Under the Patek Philippe brand came the first perpetual calendar, split-seconds hand, chronograph, and the minute repeater. Those accomplishments didn’t end there, they are also notable for being one of 20 swiss watch companies to develop the first Swiss production watch, the beta 21, used by other manufacturers in watches such as, the Omega Electroquartz. 

Watch builds take longer than you may think.
Compared to its competing Swiss brand, Rolex, who develops 700,000 timepieces annually - Patek Philippe only creates 50,000. Why? Because the watches produces are so complicated, it takes 12 months for a craftsman to build! While modern technology helps make sure all timepieces are uniform, hand assembly remains extremely important to the brand’s heritage. 

Patek Philippe and the Stern brothers.
Patek Philippe sold the company to the Stern brothers, Charles and Jean, in 1932 and the family still owns the company today. 

Like fine wine, Patek Philippe only get’s better with age. You can find a Patek Philippe, dated back to the 1940’s, at Central Watch! From vintage timepieces to watch repair and watch straps, we are here to provide exceptional service for all of your watch needs. Stop by our store in Grand Central to view our selection or learn more about our services.