Patek Philippe Boutique Opens on Rodeo Drive

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – World-renowned Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe and GEARYS will open the Patek Philippe boutique on July 27, 2012, it was announced today. The Rodeo Drive boutique, which will be owned and operated by GEARYS, is Patek Philippe's first freestanding boutique in the United States.  An expansive collection of the world's most captivating timepieces, including those from the most recent Basel collection, will be available at the new boutique.  

PATEK PHILIPPE AND GEARYS

TO OPEN FIRST US STANDALONE BOUTIQUE ON RODEO DRIVE

These two family-owned companies, both dedicated to impeccable quality and style, have chosen to embark on this unique and very special endeavor together. GEARYS, who has been serving the Beverly Hills area for nearly a century, continues to offer the world's most renowned brands for its distinguished clientele.  As the last Geneva based and family owned watch manufacturer, Patek Philippe's remarkable history spans nearly 175 years.  The company's reputation for providing rare, high quality, hand-finished timepieces that are known to last for generations continues to drive watch enthusiasts to the brand. Patek Philippe's clientele include heads of state, royalty, Fortune 500 CEOs, celebrities and connoisseurs around the world. The rich legacy that these two respected and trusted brands share will be reflected in the Patek Philippe boutique.

"Expanding our partnership with Patek Philippe to open the first freestanding boutique in the US is an exciting opportunity for us," says Thomas J. Blumenthal, owner of GEARYS Beverly Hills.   "Not only is Patek Philippe the world's most admired and prestigious watchmaker, it is also a family-run company like we are and is one that shares many of our core values here at GEARYS.  As the only standalone boutique in America, the Patek Philippe boutique will be the preeminent destination for timepieces."

"We are extremely proud to partner with GEARYS," says Larry Pettinelli, President of Patek Philippe USA.  "They have become a tremendous advocate for Patek Philippe in the southern California region, and they have a genuine understanding and respect for the Patek Philippe culture.  We are confident that GEARYS will not only safeguard the brand, but also provide a wonderful environment and resource for their esteemed clientele."

To commemorate the opening of the Patek Philippe boutique a one-of-a kind cloisonné enamel dome clock was specially created for GEARYS.  This signature art form is a part of Patek Philippe's heritage, incorporating several rare disciplines such as the masterful technique of cloisonné enamel, which requires exceptional artisanal skills.  The clock depicts California's state bird, the valley quail; a prized game bird with exquisite and colorful features.  

As part of the impeccable service that the boutique will provide, sales associates will undergo extensive training by Patek Philippe to ensure their knowledge of the company's history, values and product.

Celebrating the fine art of watchmaking, the new Patek Philippe boutique on Rodeo Drive features the work of famed French designer Patrick Gaguech, whose respect for tradition gives the new boutique an elegant, nostalgic style.  Emphasizing Art Deco design, the 1250 square foot boutique will feature a VIP lounge as well as a custom chandelier, created by Mr. Gaguech, who also has designed Patek Philippe salons in Geneva, Paris and London.

GEARYS has been a fixture in Beverly Hills since 1930 when the Geary family opened the store on Beverly Drive.  Mr. Blumenthal is the third generation to run the family business that his grandparents bought in 1950 and his uncle Bruce Meyer ran in the 1980s and 1990s.    For more than 82 years, GEARYS has had a longstanding and storied history with the City of Beverly Hills, its residents and visitors.

Patek Philippe was founded in 1839 by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Jean-Adrien Philippe and quickly became the standard for fine watch making around the world.  In 1932 the Stern family who manufactured the dials for Patek Philippe, officially purchased the company. Thierry Stern leads the company today, representing a fourth generation of ownership and management.

The Patek Philippe boutique at GEARYS will be located at 360 North Rodeo Drive. 

About GEARYS Beverly Hills

As a Beverly Hills tradition for over 80 years, GEARYS has assembled an unrivaled collection of the finest luxury brands from around the world including an unsurpassed collection of fine china, crystal, silver and gifts, as well as some of the most sought after names in fine jewelry and watches.  GEARYS also offers a luxury Gift Registry program tailored to deliver impeccable service and unparalleled convenience. We invite you to visit our stores and see how more than 80 years of tradition and experience has made GEARYS a trusted name in incomparable selection and service.

About Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe based in Geneva, Switzerland, designs and manufactures what experts consider to be the finest timepieces in the world. Since 1839, Patek Philippe has continued the tradition of fine Geneva watchmaking and has been granted over 80 patents.  Independence, tradition, innovation, quality and craftsmanship, rarity, value, aesthetics, service, emotion and heritage are the fundamental values of the Genevan watchmaker.  For more information, visit www.patek.com

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