Patek Philippe Twenty~4 vs. Cartier Baignoire

Key Points from the Discussion

• The use of a plastic insert to hold a quartz movement in place is a functional necessity to prevent short-circuiting with the case, not necessarily a sign of poor quality.
• For many luxury watch buyers, especially women, the primary drivers are cachet, aesthetics, and social inclusion, rather than horological mechanics, making quartz a viable option for manufacturers.
• The Patek Philippe Twenty~4's proportions, particularly its small dial and wide bracelet, are sometimes seen as less appealing compared to alternatives like the Cartier Tank Américaine.
• While the Twenty~4 is well-designed as a jewelry piece, many collectors, especially those focused on mechanical horology, find quartz movements, particularly with plastic components, to be unworthy of a brand like Patek Philippe.
• The convenience of a quartz watch, which always shows the correct time without needing winding or setting, is a significant factor for many wearers who prioritize practicality over mechanical intricacies.
• Patek Philippe has since introduced an automatic version of the Twenty~4, indicating a recognition of the growing interest in mechanical movements among women and a strategy to broaden its appeal.