Patek Philippe

It was in 1992 that I bought my first Patek Philippe- a reference 3796 in rose gold with a beautiful rose dial.

I 24 years old and here I was with David Duggan,the man responsible for my initial education in the brand I would grow to love. 

My interest in Patek was piqued a few years earlier at an auction where I was bidding on a Rolex Oyster date and I came across what I thought and still think is the most beautiful watch ever created the ref 2499.

It was David who guided me into taking the first footsteps towards Patek by extolling the incredible finishing and workmanship.

Unfortunately I don't have pictures of this first watch, it was in the days of 35mm film!

And there were no pc's either!!!

What made the event however was a bizarre coincidence.

As I was buying this 3796, a long standing customer cam as well to pick up his watch,omg what a watch, it was a 1950's Patek minute repeater. Btw he was wearing a 3940.

David introduced me to him, can you imagine the moment, here I was buying a 3796, with him getting a minute repeater.

Our conversations has shaped my whole collecting philosophy, I never met him again but he shaped my future years of the whole ethos of Patek.

His first words were to congratulate me on most wonderful acquisition! He showed his immense knowledge by telling me the history of the '96. He explained every Patek collection has a Calatrava, his was a 2526. He told me this was the king of vintage automatics.

He commended me on acquiring a jewel of watches at a young age. His attitude and genuine affection stayed with me. I was apprehensive that he may have looked down on my mundane 3796 with its 215 movement, but it was totally the opposite.

This he explained is the Patek ethos and philosophy, its about the joy irrespective of value or investment. A lesson that has become ingrained in me.

What followed in the next 10 years is for part 2 of my 25 year love.

Best

Imran

Best wishes

Thank you for sharing your first with us!

Absolutely stunning watch!

I wish I would have been that insightful at young age and would have had such guidance as well.

Best

Blomman

During my recent years of understanding the watch community, I consider myself fortunate to come across some people that provided similar knowledge that is not necessarily in books, but just based on their experiences and therefore can give you a completely different perspective of a particular brand that people do not necessarily know. 

Thank you...