Patek Philippe

Watch4Steve
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Why I did it (part 1)

Hello to all!

I made a major move in my collection recently and instead of asking everyone's opinion before doing it,  I will detail my decision process in hindsight and see what you all think.  A lot has been said on this forum about the two models involved in my transaction.  Realizing that "buy what you love" always seems to emerge as the prevailing opinion on these matters, please allow me to share my story.

One lesson I've learned in my short watch collecting career is that affections can be fickle.  Much like romantic relationships, some explode with instant passion and soon flame out while others build in intensity over time.  Some at first glance seem incompatible and even unattractive, only to learn upon closer touching and fondling that you were meant to be together all along.

Another lesson I've learned is that these affections are a combination of intellectual appreciation and emotional attachment.  When a watch makes your heart race with its beauty, yet at the same time you can rationally appreciate its mechanical perfection, or even dare I say its rarity and/or "value" - well then you have a home run!

That's how it has been for me and Patek.  Countless models, past and present, have captivated and infatuated me with their aesthetic beauty.   Pateks have a certain "it" that I don't see anywhere else - they look like they could jump off your wrist and eat any other watch if they wanted to, but they know it isn't necessary.  Intellectually, the more I learn about the history of the company, how it has carefully crafted its unmatched brand equity and its stunning technical breakthroughs, the more my emotional attraction is validated.

I think that is why collectability and value inevitably creep into the discussion.  "Going with your heart" is fine as it goes, but coupling a watch you love with the more rational satisfaction of getting a good deal or creating long-term value is always better, is it not?

With that wordy overture being said, what reasons (emotional and rational) would a man have to trade this:

in toward one of these:

Well, that is exactly what I did a few short weeks ago.  It was a very difficult decision, and while I realize that I am extremely fortunate to have the financial means to buy even one Patek, my rational side overruled my emotional side and would not let me have both these pieces - so the 5070P was traded up into a 5070P.  Why?

Well, unfortunately I am late to bed and have an important meeting first thing in the morning.  Part II coming soon....

Steve