Collection
GLau's latest post offers an intimate look into the horological journey of cbb and her family, renowned for their significant Patek Philippe collection. This article, a follow-up to a previous piece, not only celebrates cbb's unique approach to collecting, blending high complications with vibrant aesthetics, but also pays tribute to her late brother, Khun Nick, and their father, the 'Legendary Patek Philippe Collector.' GLau masterfully weaves personal anecdotes with insights into a collecting philosophy that extends beyond mere acquisition, emphasizing passion and legacy.
and again with great pleasure 😃 (along with much self-imposed pressure 😅) I am happy to provide you with more stories and photos about her and her family’s (one of the BIGGEST Patek collector) horological journey.
The previous article, written during Covid https://www.watchprosite.com/page-wf.forumpost/fi-11/ti-1413126/dv-true/wf.responses.open_bLoB_s-0/ , looked at the rise of Khun Chamnong (hereafter referred to as Legendary Patek Philippe Collector or LPPC) in the Patek collection world, as generously explained by cbb and her brother Khun Nick. Originally we planned that this next episode, Khun Nick (being the eldest sibling having most knowledge of his dad’s journey), could provide more stories before we focus on him and then cbb. Unfortunately due to medical issues, he is no longer with us, and as such, this post is dedicated to Khun Nick who was admired for his leadership in leading the Singha brewery and Pendulum (an AD for many brands).
Although she loves watches with colourful dials (including enamel and other rare handcrafts) and bright straps because she is fashionable (more on this topic), she is also into high complications which is generally atypical for female collectors (according to various ADs but the trend is slowly changing). The photos below demonstrates that this lady means business !
As daddy’s girl, LPPG did not want to see her go to boarding school (Dana Hall in Wellesley, MA), and bribed her to stay behind with a speed boat. Being a sneaky child, cbb agreed and got the boat, but stayed just one more year before going overseas. Both LPPC and her got in big trouble with her mom who got cbb in this prestigious school ! Anyway, she still has the boat and it is running fine.
Her fashion sense (developed from Hawaiian dancing and modelling/posing for her dad’s many Leica cameras) dictates that she matches outfit with a selected watch. For any event, cbb would first choose the most appropriate watch for the occasion, and then match it with an outfit. Thinking more, her logic makes sense because the watch usually cost more than an outfit, right ?
Being “daddy’s watch girl”, she would accompany LPPC to various Patek events and meet the Stern family. Mr. P. Stern became very good friends with LPPC, and he made a surprise visit to Thailand for LPPC’s 80th birthday dinner, which was secretly organized by the “cheeky” cbb. Totally caught off-guard, he nonetheless was very happy and said that cbb cannot be trusted because she had lied and told him that Jerome Pernici (commercial and marketing director) was attending.
Even though Singha beer became a BIG business and his wealth swelled, LPPC taught his children to be humble & punctual, and pay respects to others no matter their social-economic/educational backgrounds. He valued education and believed everyone deserves same opportunities, and sponsored many students, doctors, cadets and hospitals. After his passing, cbb and family created Chamnong Bhirombhakdi’s Foundation to carry on his wishes in his honor.
"Even though Singha beer became a BIG business and his wealth swelled, LPPC taught his children to be humble & punctual, and pay respects to others no matter their social-economic/educational backgrounds. He valued education and believed everyone deserves same opportunities, and sponsored many students, doctors, cadets and hospitals. After his passing, cbb and family created Chamnong Bhirombhakdi’s Foundation to carry on his wishes in his honor." Is that what you wanted to know ?
the family history, the watch collection, the dedicated Foundation. Thanks for sharing, Gordon.
It would be amazing to meet her and discuss her interests. Especially since she is into enamel and complications, with a love for bright straps. It would be nice to hear how she can influence creations for many women as they enter horology to not just simply be an afterthought. Simply adjusting size or slapping gems on them should not make something a woman’s watch.
Focused on the rarest, often most desirable as well ultra complicated modern Pateks, it is also a tribute to the brand. and its capability to conceive and create watches that capture the imagination. Well done, Gordon! Best, Patekova PS - Has the family also collected vintage Pateks? If so, maybe that can be discussed and illustrated in a separate post dedicated to that subject.
into one of the biggest Patek collector, and it is a blessing the family continue his horological journey. We are so lucky to have cbb here sharing glimpses of those masterpieces.
Would be amazing to see their incredible collection 🙏🏻. I think a lot of unique and one of a kind pieces from the great brand
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