Patek Philippe at Laings: Our Team

How did you first begin your journey with Patek Philippe?

DG:   I joined the Laings team in 2022 and quickly fell in love with the works of art and mechanical supremacy that lie within each Patek Philippe watch; there’s so much to adore about the brand. The dedication, since 1839, to manufacture and service all its own watches is so admirable. This lifelong commitment is something I enjoy sharing with our clients and really underlines the ethos of the company.

Throughout the two centuries they have been producing watches, no detail is overlooked. They continue to surprise us with new releases, yet maintain that signature Patek Philippe design. The range of collections has something to suit everyone, whether you’re looking for a sportier timepiece or would like a dress watch – choose the Aquanaut to accompany an adventure or a Golden Ellipse that fits perfectly under a crisp shirt cuff. The brand has an overarching aim of crafting the best watches in the world, and this is achieved through careful preservation of techniques and values.

Why is it important to you to embody the Patek Philippe philosophy?

DG: The ten core values of Patek Philippe underpin their entire brand, and it’s felt at every touchpoint, from watches to communications and servicing. Similar to Laings, they operate following a strict code of ethics, ensuring each person and stage of watchmaking champions each value. This is evident when it comes to the watches; educating the clients on each intricacy allows us at Laings to explore these philosophies, and it’s so important to embody them as we are one of two custodians of the Manufacturer in Scotland. Working with Patek Philippe has been a highlight of my career, with a clear and admirable philosophy to guide me. It’s a pleasure to be able to share this passion with our clients.

I have had the privilege of visiting the Manufacturer in Geneva, attending high-level bespoke training and learning insights first-hand. Meeting the watchmakers, artisans and Thierry Stern himself, it became clear that the vision of Patek Philippe and Laings align perfectly. Two strong, independent family businesses that respect the skill and care required to craft incredible timepieces but also the highest respect for their clients and retail partners.

Do you have a favourite memory with a client?

DG: Every Patek Philippe watch that leaves our doors has a special memory attached to it. It’s more than a purchase; it’s a highlight of a life, celebrating a special achievement and starting a new tradition or continuing an existing one. One of my favourite interactions was welcoming a valued client to purchase a ladies Twenty~4 timepiece to celebrate the birth of her first daughter. This timepiece would be given to the child come her 18th birthday. What a wonderful journey to be a part of; celebrating such a milestone in the couple's story marked by the most treasured timepiece. It was a meeting of history and future. They really embodied the Patek Philippe ethos, and I was fortunate enough to play a small part in this wonderful story that will continue for generations. The art of keeping timepieces within the family is a beautiful representation of the Manufacturer.

Do you have a favourite Patek Philippe timepiece? 

DG: Patek Philippe watches are a combination of both modern and traditional aesthetic. They don’t design for trends, yet a Patek Philippe timepiece is never behind the curve – they’re simply timeless. My favourite watch would have to be the 5231G World Time. It’s a standout piece that mixes craftsmanship and style perfectly. The enamel dial - invented by Louis Cottier and used by Patek Philippe since 1937 - is handmade with grand feu enamel, reminiscent of historical models. It keeps time across different time zones with elegance and precision, running on the Caliber 240 HU movement, one of Patek Philippe's thinnest self-winding calibres with a micro rotar. This model embodies everything true to Patek Philippe; a handcrafted specialist dial, one of the most functional complications in a beautifully designed case and strap.

Do Patek Philippe have a range of offerings outside of watches?

DG: Whilst Patek Philippe are masters of watch-making they do offer other exceptional pieces from the realms of jewellery and accessories. Laings is proud to present an exquisite selection of Patek Philippe earrings, rings, and cufflinks — each a refined complement to the Maison’s iconic timepieces yet striking enough to make a statement on their own.