What makes Patek Philippe a category of its own?

Everyone who has ever heard about luxury watches knows the name Patek Philippe. The Nautilus has become the legacy of Haute Horlogerie, the single most iconic high-end watch there is to buy. Many people realise there's something special about this brand, but they can’t usually name it. Is it the quality of the build? The insane premium you pay for Patek timepieces? Let’s summarise some key aspects that make this Swiss brand a unique thing, even in such a competitive environment, where perfection and precision are a must.

 

Photo source: Getty

 

Patek has the history worth of a legend

 

Since 1839, this brand has been focusing on providing the best timepieces money can buy. Their watches were seen on the wrists of European royalty and served as status symbols in the highest echelons of wealth.

 

And let’s not forget the breathtaking complications and contributions they added to the world of watchmaking, such as the perpetual or annual calendar, and indeed, the minute repeater.

 

Photo source: David Chan

 

Their watches are rare. Very rare.

 

While Rolex makes approximately 1,000,000 watches a year, Patek makes just 62,000. A big difference.

 

This only shows their focus on quality and precision. Patek prides itself on its artisan's competence and abilities, and they are nicely rewarded for all the impeccable work they do.

 

Photo source: Global Boutique 

 

Want a good and stable investment? Buy a Patek Philippe timepiece.

 

An entry-level watch from this brand will cost you around 15,000 Euros, and that’s in used and ‘good’ condition at best. Their “mid-range” models cost as a brand new Mercedes, while for their high-end options, you could comfortably buy yourself a nice villa in Tuscany. The beauty of this is - it hasn’t always been like that.

 

Well, Patek watches were always quite expensive, but the insane premium they go for nowadays started getting traction only a couple of years ago. And the prices are still climbing. A watch you bought for 7,000 Euros 5 years ago will cost around 40,000 Euros today. Try getting this rise in value with real estate or stocks. This trend is climbing rapidly, pointing in a direction of even crazier jumps in price over time.

 

Photo source: Patek Philippe

 

Now it’s quite easy to see why Patek Philippe is in a category of its own. Their watches are a universal status symbol, which you can always have on your wrist. They’re also a good investment, which tends to be way more liquid and profitable than almost anything else you can in the mainstream markets. The unmatched quality is a nice touch too. And of course, whenever you put it on your wrist, you will look and feel like a million bucks.