Hi Dje,
to me the look and consequently the mood that is created is the most important factor in buying a Patek.
AND: you do not have to break the bank to get this feeling! I will explain further at the end this point.
The day I bought my Golden Ellipse I took also a friend with me, who hasn't got a clue of watches.
I do this quite often: asking a layman about his opinion about something that I am more into already.
This layman friend said about the watches to choose from as my first Patek: " The 5196, the 5127 are lovely, nice watches.
But your favorite the Ellipse is simply something different, something special!".
And this is what REAL beauty is: even the untrained eye has to admit that it is something special.
What makes Pateks beautiful?
The timeless design, elegant appearance of many Pateks.
I woud say also the craftsmanship behind them: they have to be slim to look elegant, to feel elegant ... and small ;-).
Do I fancy my Patek still the same as on the first day?
A clear Yes!
The good thing about my Ellipse is that I "can" wear it only in the winter time and during summer not that often.
When I put her (?) on again after a long time it all starts again: I can not keep my eyes off her.
The most beautiful Patek?
A though question.
The 5140 J : it has to be yellow gold to create that special mood, normally I would choose a simple watch without complications
but the 5140 gets away with it by being such a slim and small watch.
BUT, and here is my point again that I made at the beginning: I do not see a "need" to buy myself a 5140 as the Ellipse can already create the same mood...
Regards
Moritz