The Laings Journal
Patek Philippe are world-renowned for their incredible timepieces and the Patek Philippe Museum is an astounding insight into the world of watchmaking. Here we look at the story behind the Museum and why lovers of the art of horology flock to the impressive collection year after year.
Since 1839 Patek Philippe has been perpetuating the tradition of Genevan watchmaking and the family-owned independent watchmaker has been behind the finest timepieces in the world. The Patek Philippe Museum explores the enduring appeal of the watchmaking universe, displaying magnificent examples of Patek Philippe craftsmanship, as well as important historical pieces, culminating in an awe-inspiring collection.
The Inspiration behind the Museum
Found in the Plainpalais area in Geneva the Patek Philippe Museum is a result of the HonoraryPresident of Patek, Philippe Stern’s passion for watchmaking. As a watch connoisseur, he began collecting in the 1960s, building up an impressive collection that is at the heart of the museum. It was his chance to share the artistry of watchmaking with the world.
Now the museum houses over five centuries of watchmaking history with over 2,800 exhibits. The captivating collection is then split into two important collections: an extraordinary antique collection starting from the 16th century, which includes the earliest watch ever made and the Patek Philippe collection from 1939 onwards, a testament to 180 years of manufacturing the world’s finest watches. The museum is a true celebration of the art of watchmaking, all brought together by the passion of one man.
A Breath-taking Collection
The Patek Philippe Museum houses the world’s greatest horological treasures. There’s a sense of awe as you walk through the doors and are immersed in the world of watchmaking and sheer skill of the craftsmanship that comes with it. The full collection has taken a huge amount of time to acquire and only timepieces of the highest quality and most historical significance have been chosen.
It includes pocket watches that were made for royalty in the 19th century, a beautiful array of unbelievably detailed enamel pieces, ornamental watches that are stunning to behold, as well as the art of musical automata with singing birds. There is also an impressive library dedicated to horology. Here you’ll find over 4,000 precious books and manuscripts, along with volumes that can identify any Patek Philippe watch ever produced.
One of the most impressive exhibits is the Patek Philippe Calibre 89. This commemorative pocket watch was created in 1989 to celebrate the company’s 150th anniversary and has been heralded as the most complicated watch in the world. The pocket watch houses 33 complications and beautifully demonstrates the skill and capability of the innovative brand. It’s a true marvel of the watch world.
A Temple to Watchmaking
The Patek Philippe Museum is an incredible place that allows you to see all the feats of watchmaking under one roof, from huge milestones in the history of horology to some of the most impressive timepieces from Patek Philippe it has become known as a ‘temple to watchmaking’.
It’s the most comprehensive watch museum in the world and allows visitors to understand the rich legacy, techniques and skills used throughout the history of watchmaking. Housing the world’s greatest horological wonders it’s a “treasure trove of inspiration for the future.”
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