Patek Philippe: The Perfect Blend of Luxury and Unparalleled Craftsmanship
Any discussion regarding haute horlogerie and luxury Swiss watches would be incomplete without mentioning Patek Philippe. This Genevan manufacturer combines luxury, precision, and unparalleled craftsmanship, producing some of the world’s most exquisite watches.
Patek Philippe has achieved a lot of “firsts” in the watchmaking industry. On top of that, they are also known for more than 80 patents around the world. With its expertise and experience of over a hundred years, this watch brand is still a trailblazer in horology in the 21st century.
“You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely take care of it for the next generation.”
This tagline is a testament to Patek Philippe’s exceptional value and resilience. Sought after by watch enthusiasts and collectors, this watch brand is known for its consistently increasing market value. That said, Patek Philippe watches are both a status symbol and an investment.
History of Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe has been pursuing the high art of Genevan watchmaking since 1939 without interruption. Founded by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Franciszek Czapek, the company was initially named as “Patek and Czapek”. Due to the differences between the two, the co-operation did not continue.
In 1844, Patek learned of another watchmaker named Jean Adrien Philippe. Philippe was a pocket watch inventor who received a bronze model for his keyless winding and hand-setting system. The next year, Patek invited Philippe to join him and the company Patek & Cie was founded.
In 1851, the company was renamed Patek, Philippe & Cie. In the same year, the two participated in the Great Exhibition in London. There, Queen Victoria purchased two watches – one for herself and one for Prince Albert.
In 1868, Patek Philippe created the first Swiss wristwatch, made for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary. In 1902, Patek Philippe patented the first-ever double chronograph. 23 years later, they introduced the first wristwatch with a perpetual calendar.
Patek Philippe remains to strive for excellence by continuing to innovate their watchmaking technology. In 1933, after three years of development and five years of manufacturing, the Henry Graves Supercomplication was completed.
Since 1932, the company has been in the hands of the Stern Family. In 2009, the company was again renamed Patek Philippe. Thierry Stern, President of Patek Philippe, has been leading the company since 2010 with over 2,000 employees worldwide.
FAQs
How Much Does a Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Watch Cost?
Pre-owned Patek Philippe watches range widely in price, reflecting the brand’s prestige and craftsmanship. Based on current listings, prices typically start from S$16,500 and can reach as high as S$309,900, depending on the model, materials, and rarity. On average, expect to pay around S$98,400 for a Patek Philippe on the secondary market.
Popular models like the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6007G-010 retail for around S$32,900, while highly coveted pieces such as the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990/1R-001 command prices up to S$309,900. Whether you’re seeking refined dress watches or complex complications, pre-owned Patek Philippe timepieces offer enduring value and iconic appeal.
What Are the Best Patek Philippe Watch Models?
- Patek Philippe Nautilus: Launched in 1976, this PP watch collection has been a collector favorite. And one of the most sought-after PP Nautilus timepieces is the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711. It is one of the world’s most desirable steel sports watches and as of 2021, the watch company confirmed that this model is now discontinued.
- Patek Philippe Aquanaut: A true sports watch but also a wonderful indicator of success, the PP Aquanaut collection is considered a luxury timepiece. This collection is a lower-priced alternative to the PP Nautilus collection. One of its most popular models is the Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167R-001 featuring an updated dial style with a more prominent curve in the embossing.
- Patek Philippe Grand Complications: The PP Grand Complications 5270G-001 was the first in-house perpetual calendar chronograph. Newer versions of Patek Philippe Grand Complications, such as the 5270G-018, feature a tachymeter scale as well as a radial date.
Are Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Watches a Good Investment?
Yes, pre-owned Patek Philippe watches are considered one of the most secure investments in luxury horology. The brand’s heritage, limited production, and exceptional craftsmanship make its timepieces highly sought-after and resilient in value.
For example, the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990/1A currently sells for around S$127,200 on the pre-owned market, up from its S$100,800 retail price in February 2025—reflecting notable appreciation in just a short time. While not every model will experience the same trajectory, many Patek Philippe references tend to retain or increase in value over time.
That said, buying a pre-owned Patek Philippe, PP watches, today may turn into an heirloom and valuable investment in the years to come if you treat it with proper care and attention.
