For luxury watch enthusiasts, A-list celebrities, collectors and those who appreciate the finer things in life, a classic Patek Philippe watch will be amongst their most prized assets. Rare early models in particular are coveted investments that stand as a testament to the brand's fine craftsmanship and the dedicated artisans who developed them.
However, that's not the whole story! With Patek Philippe being one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the industry, first established in 1839, their timepieces have played their part in history. From Queen Victoria and Countess Koscowicz to Albert Einstein, not to mention the richest person in the world (Bernard Arnault), Patek Philippe has long been associated with exceptional wealth, prestige and people of influence.
Both President John F. Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr were aficionados of Patek Philippe. The latter had a rare desk clock, while President Kennedy owned the first water-resistant chronograph wristwatch, the 18-carat Patek Philippe timepiece reference 1463. He is thought to have been wearing this at the time of his assassination in 1962.
Let’s look at five of the most iconic Patek Philippe watches:
As with many luxury goods, demand far outstrips supply, ensuring that every watch sold carries a high price, and this will only increase in the pre-loved market. Patek Philippe timepieces demonstrate such exceptional quality, durability, precision timekeeping and handcrafted design that, no matter which collection you buy into or what model you own, an authentic piece from the brand will prove to be a very worthwhile investment.
In 2023, amongst the world's top ten most expensive watches ever sold at auction, nine were Patek Philippe. Perhaps the brand's slogan - "You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation" holds some truth.