The history of Patek Philippe is a true legend in the world of horology. Founded in the 19th century, the brand has become synonymous with innovation, craftsmanship, and prestige. Here’s a detailed look at their journey:
Founding and Early Years (1839–1851)
1845–1851: Patek partnered with Jean Adrien Philippe, a French watchmaker who invented the keyless winding mechanism (the crown). This innovation allowed users to wind and set watches without a key.
1839: The story begins in Geneva when Antoni Patek, a Polish soldier and political refugee, and his partner Franciszek Czapek, a Czech watchmaker, started Patek, Czapek & Cie, producing high-end pocket watches.
1845: The partnership dissolved, and Patek sought a new partner.
Patek Philippe is Born (1851)
That same year, Queen Victoria acquired a Patek Philippe timepiece at the Great Exhibition in London. This marked the beginning of the brand’s long association with royalty and high society.
1851: The company officially became Patek Philippe & Co.
Technical Innovation and Prestige (19th – early 20th century)
Patek Philippe became known for bespoke, one-of-a-kind creations, often made for royalty and aristocrats around the world.
1868: Created one of the first Swiss wristwatches, made for a Hungarian countess.
Introduced numerous patents and complications, including:
Perpetual calendars
Split-seconds chronographs
Minute repeaters
Stern Family and Independence (1932–present)
The Stern family still owns Patek Philippe, making it one of the last family-owned independent watchmakers in Switzerland.
1932: The Stern family, owners of a dial manufacturer, acquired the company during the Great Depression.
They launched the Calatrava line the same year—a sleek, round dress watch that remains iconic today.
Iconic Watches & Innovations
2014: Unveiled the Grandmaster Chime for their 175th anniversary. With 20 complications, it’s among the most complex wristwatches ever made.
1941: Introduced the first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph.
1976: Released the Nautilus, a luxury sports watch designed by Gérald Genta. It became one of the most desired watches ever.
1989: For the 150th anniversary, Patek launched the Calibre 89, which held the title of most complicated watch in the world (33 complications) for decades.
Modern Era
A strong secondary market demand
Patek Philippe continues to be a symbol of heritage, prestige, and value retention.
Their watches frequently break records at auction—like the Grandmaster Chime 6300A, which sold for $31 million in 2019, making it the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction.
Today, the brand is known for:
Timeless design
In-house movement development
Attention to finishing and detail
Motto & Philosophy
“You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.”
This famous tagline captures the essence of the brand: enduring value, tradition, and excellence.