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In this thought-provoking post, Dje delves into the profound question of why collectors are drawn to Patek Philippe watches, specifically exploring the role of 'beauty' as a primary motivator. Moving beyond rarity and tradition, he challenges readers to consider if Patek Philippe has achieved a universal aesthetic appeal that transcends individual tastes and cultural backgrounds. This discussion invites a deeper appreciation for the brand's design philosophy.
It's time to come back to our little subject. Why do we love Patek Philippe watches?
It's seemingly not because of their rarity, nor even just the tradition they perpetuate till today and tomorrow. Of course some or many of you appreciate these qualities, but they are not The reason. As we may not make this game last forever, I thought you may like to discuss a potentially more serious reason (but perhaps not yet the most serious one).
So let me ask you if some here consider the beauty of their Patek Philippe watch as the main reason they bought it!
Stupid question may you think! You may consider it dumb but is it The reason?
Beauty is a relative opinion as you know. How is that that Patek Philippe watches would be so largely recognized as beautiful watches while we have so different tastes, histories, cultural backgrounds?
Could we think that Patek Philippe has achieved a level of design that succeeds in incarnating a kind of universal beauty?
Beauty has many facets. Beauty can be obviously classical, it can remember us centuries of slowly achieved perfection. This Patek Philippe 5159 above may be a classical beauty.
Beauty can also be freshly renewing the charm of the object. Looking like no other, a Patek Philippe 5960 is bringing us a surprisingly new beauty. And so new it was, the beauty was not so obvious when it appeared as many doubted and took time to appreciate it. But now who doubts, a few years later?
Beauty is somewhat the result of many decisions. Equilibrium, purity, readability, capacity to catch the light, colours, elegance, grace, tension, harmony…..
Did you buy your Patek Philippe watch because you found it to be beautiful?
Was the beauty of your watch the primary and major reason why you bought it?
What in your opinion makes the beauty of your Patek Philippe watch?
Do you find it as beautiful today as you think it was when you bought it?
What is the most beautiful Patek Philippe watch for your taste and why?
Let us know!
Dje
The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Officer Reference 5159 represents the brand's officer-style case interpretation of their perpetual calendar complications. Distinguished by its hinged case back design, the 5159 combines the traditional officer watch aesthetic with one of haute horlogerie's most complex calendar displays. Production commenced in 2006 and continues in the current catalog.
The 38mm case is crafted from 18k white gold with a polished bezel and sapphire crystal. The opaline white dial provides the backdrop for the perpetual calendar indications. Power comes from the manual-winding caliber 215 PS FUS, delivering 44 hours of power reserve. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters, and the watch is fitted with an alligator leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar complication in the distinctive officer case format. The 38mm sizing and white gold construction position it as a dress watch within the perpetual calendar range. The manual movement and traditional case design attract those favoring classical horological approaches over contemporary interpretations.
In fact, this is the only reason why I can consider buying a Patek... I don't like many of them, but those I love, I love them deeply. Does that makes sense? Best, Nicolas.
I was "Wow! Gotta have that!" and seriously considered the 5159 after my Dato... but.. for some reason, the looks tires fast.. for me. For me, an example of an enduring Patek beauty which I still think is as fantastic today as teh first day I chanced upon it is the 5078. That is a confident watch... so complex but yet doesn't need to shout it.... but... I would not write an essay to applpy for permission to buy it... just me though and fortunately for me... I can;t afford it so I don't haveto wo
I think that Patek Philippe's head designer and I share very similar thoughts on design. Out of all the major haute de gamme Swiss watch brands, I feel that Patek Philippe currently has the most beautiful designs. Their designs are strikingly beautiful, where I sometimes find the designs from other brands either too simple, too classic, too stoic, or poorly proportioned. Being a younger individual, I find that I am in the minority among individuals my age who like Patek Philippe. Most people my
It happens the original black dial 6000-01 ugly duckling to most Patek fans is still a favourite of mine ,radial flip or not LOL. I find this " ugly duckling " attractive in the same way as a avantgarde contemporary artwork. I recall exchanging PM's with you on TZ way back in late 2006/ early 2007 when you first got interested in watches and was considering getting one and asking questions. Cheers,dreamer
Little indeed has changed, I've liked the 6000G since its inception almost a decade ago (at least it seems that long). Good to hear from you! Truly!
Is in the eye of the beholder). Is what it is all about for me. Someone once wrote here that they collect watches like a numismatist collects coins and I think I fall into this category. Don't get me wrong I wear my watches but I also like to look at them and marvel at the designs. Pp has nailed it here Look at the vintage cases by Markowski etc the rof 1593. Ref 2442. Etc. They are truly works of art. Never the movement which are also exceptional but the case / dial of these vintage pieces are
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