Patek Philippe watches are widely regarded as some of the finest timepieces on the planet. The origins of the company can be traced back to the partnership of Antoni Patek and Franciszek Czapek who initially collaborated together in 1839. After gaining valuable experience in the competitive watchmaking industry, Patek Philippe as we know it today, launched its first unique piece in 1851.

Its rise to prominence was rapid, owing largely to the superb quality of the watches. New designs were quickly developed, each an ode to luxurious resplendence. Recognising the unique qualities of each item, Queen Victoria became one of the earliest champions of the brand, taking a particular shine to the first keyless pocket watch, an invention unique to Patek Philippe.

In 1868, a bold move by the now-famous royal watchmaker saw traditional convention cast aside. It was to be a move that revolutionised not only the watchmaking industry but the fashion industry in its entirety. Patek Philippe designed a timepiece that discarded the chain of the pocket watch, instead opting for the watch face to be attached to a strap around the wrist. The wristwatch was born (30 years before the inception of Rolex).

After the deaths of the founders, the company was purchased by Jean and Charles Stern. Determined to stay true to the original roots of the brand, the two brothers oversaw the design and production of some of the world's most intricate watch designs. Single watches would spend years in the design process, ensuring every exquisite detail was just so, and would then take many more years to expertly construct.

Keen to stay abreast of modern design, Patek Philippe was the first watchmaker to undertake the manufacture of the electronic clock. This piece had no moving parts and was the original watch to employ a quartz crystal to manage the time.

Which brings us to the modern-day. Still an advocate of pushing the boundaries and maximising the use of new technology, Patek Philippe invests heavily in research and design. The dedicated team has produced a range like no other, most notably the Calatrava, Nautilus, Gondolo, Twenty-4, Golden Ellipse and the Aquanaut. All modern-day classics drawing on years of heritage to create stunning designs.

Intricate watch design is the ultimate test of a company's skill and expertise. Patek Philippe has not only successfully designed the world's most complicated timepieces, but truly mastered production. Every watch is a celebration of hundreds of years of artistry, encapsulated in a watch of timeless worth.

If you're asking yourself whether now is the correct time to sell your Patek Phillippe watch, get in touch for a free valuation.