FabR[Senior Patek Moderator]
26166
Honestly, I would probably stick to a local AD so to have better chances and especially look to establish a personal relationship...
Jun 05, 2022,18:45 PM
Salons (which are defined as Patek-owned and are only three in the world) and boutiques (AD-owned which sell only Patek product) might have more watches for you to *view,* but otherwise function precisely like any other AD, with their own clients, etc.. They are also normally located in big cities, where the competition, if possible, is even stiffer than in less affluent areas (even though this difference is less and less relevant nowadays ;-)
The only "issue" with your local AD is of course that it's in a wealthy city as well (and it's one of only four serving the entire country! ;-), but these days the beginning of a "relationship" is frankly tough anywhere due to the crazy demand for the entire Patek catalog... So the best strategy is probably to work with you local AD by showing interest for a "less hot" piece first (and let them know in clear terms you are local and genuinely a watch enthusiast ;-) ....and then grow over time from there, sticking to the same AD for a while
It's undeniably a tough world today (for everyone) with the most sought-after brands, but I can guarantee you that --- with patience and certainly not immediately --- it WILL be truly rewarding!
Cheers.