Are Patek Philippe watches a good investment?

If you are looking for a reliable watch that will maintain its value over time, it is noteworthy that Patek Phillipe models are renowned for maintaining their value, regardless of the current economic climate, and many models of this prestigious watch even increase in value.

To be the owner of a Patek Philippe watch, is a statement of style, sophistication, and appreciation of heritage. Here are just a few reasons why it is consistently such a popular brand to invest in.

^{A stunning Patek Phillippe lady's dress watch}

^{Sold for £14,000}

Quality

Patek Philippe have an extensive history of handcrafting some of the world’s most exquisite timepieces, each one meticulously constructed by highly skilled artisans. This level of attention to detail, coupled with Patek’s reputation for excellence, mean that their watches have been an object of desire to watch enthusiasts and collectors for decades.

In 2008, Patek even introduced their own Seal of Quality to signify that the production process, quality of parts, and timekeeping accuracy, all meet “the most exclusive and stringent” quality standards possible.

^{An excellent example of a Patek Phillippe Gondolo 5024-1}

^{Sold for £9,500}

Rarity & Exclusivity

This is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when looking for a good watch to invest in, and Patek Philippe is one of the most exclusive luxury watch brands out there. They employ approximately 2,000 of the most highly skilled watchmakers in the industry, and in 2022 produced just 62,000 timepieces in total. However, this is how Patek prefer to operate, adopting a ‘quality over quantity’ attitude.

In fact, it is the time and precision that is put into manufacturing each watch which makes them so highly sought after, with some more complex pieces taking anywhere from 9 to 12 months to craft. Whilst many of today’s luxury watch manufacturers use modern technologies to produce their timepieces, Patek are traditionalists at heart and continue to use many of the same techniques that were pioneered by their founders more than a century ago.

It is Patek's exclusivity that gives the brand such prestige, with waiting lists of several years to be expected for some of the more sought-after models. For this reason, the secondary market has become a popular way for collectors and enthusiasts to access these particular models, without having to wait several years and pay astronomical retail prices. The flood of demand in the secondary market, has also resulted in higher prices for those selling their luxury Patek’s at auction, meaning now is also a great time to sell as well as invest.

^{Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300.}

^{Sold at Only Watch charity auction in 2019 for $31 million}

^{Credit: Patek Philippe}

Innovation

Patek Philippe has a long history of innovation in the watchmaking history. They were the first to introduce the perpetual calendar complication in a wristwatch and have since continued to push the boundaries of watchmaking technology. Patek have also developed their own proprietary movements, such as the Gyromax balance and the Spiromax balance spring, which have since set industry standards.

Patek constantly test the limits of what is possible in watchmaking, whilst still maintaining their commitment to traditional craftmanship and design. This dedication to innovation has solidified their place as one of the most respected and desirable watch brands in the world.

^{A fine and rare Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 3710/1AÂ}

^{Sold for £38,000}

Design

With over 180 years of experience, Patek Philippe has established itself as a leader in the luxury watch market. Their watches are not only functional but aesthetically pleasing, with timeless designs that never go out of style. The intricate movements and complications are expertly crafted, and the materials used are of the highest quality.

One of the most popular Patek watches is the Nautilus line, a steel sports watch so desirable that it costs just as much as one of their gold timepieces. Rumoured to have first been designed on the back of a napkin, by the most legendary luxury watch designer of the modern day, Gerald Genta, it has become one of the world’s most valuable and sought-after watches.

^{Patek Philippe 's Green Dial Nautilus Ref. 3710/1AÂ}

^{(image credit: Robb Report)}

^{Sold for $470,000 at Antiquorum}

The Nautilus 5711/1A has been the line’s leading model in terms of desirability, but the line also boasts other popular pieces amongst collectors, such as the Nautilus 5726/1A, bearing the classic Nautilus aesthetic but with the addition of an annual calendar and moon phase display on the dial.

Patek Philippe watches are designed to be passed down through generations, which is a testament to their exceptional design and durability. They are  true investment pieces in both style and functionality.

Do you have a Patek Philippe watch you are keen to sell?

 We market to a global audience of collectors who are eager to bid for the most desirable luxury watches

Any submission you make will be analysed carefully and if we feel we can sell your watch, we will gladly provide you with a complimentary auction estimate

Please do get in touch, we would love to hear from you:

0207 431 9445  /  info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk