Patek Philippe: The Last Independent Watchmaker of Geneva
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For over 185 years, Patek Philippe has been an industry leader of Genevan watchmaking. Founded by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Jean Adrien Philippe, it stands as the last family-owned independent watch manufacturer in Geneva — a symbol of creative freedom, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Innovation and Excellence
Since 1839, Patek Philippe has designed, produced, and assembled what many believe to be the world’s finest timepieces, with over 100 patents, reflecting a balance of tradition and technological progress. Patek Philippe’s ten values – independence, tradition, innovation, quality and craftsmanship, rarity, value, aesthetics, service, emotion, and heritage – ensuring each watch is not just a timepiece, but a legacy to be handed down from one generation to the next.
The Stern Family Vision
Since 1932, the Stern family has led with a commitment to both heritage and modernity. Under Philippe Stern, Patek Philippe expanded its infrastructure, opened the Patek Philippe Museum, and introduced legendary creations like the Calibre 89. His son, Thierry Stern, now President, continues this vision — investing in material science and technology, including a new state-of-the-art facility in Plan-les-Ouates which opened in 2020.
The Patek Philippe Seal
In 2009, the company introduced the Patek Philippe Seal, its own hallmark of excellence, guaranteeing unmatched quality and lifetime maintenance, covering every aspect of a watch’s design, precision, and performance.
The Manufacture and Museum
Today, Patek Philippe’s headquarters in Plan-les-Ouates house everything from design and research to production and restoration, whilst also operating specialized workshops across Switzerland and elegant salons in Geneva, Paris, and London.
A highlight of the company’s cultural heritage is the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva, founded in 2001 by Philippe Stern. It showcases nearly 2500 watches, musical automata, and miniature enamels from the 16th century to today, alongside an extensive library of over 8000 works entirely dedicated to horology. This unique museum was opened to the public in Geneva in November 2001.
Timeless Craft, Endless Legacy
Through its independence, uncompromising standards, and devotion to perfection, Patek Philippe remains a benchmark of haute horlogerie — crafting watches not just to mark time, but to define generations.
Our dedicated Patek Philippe experts at our showroom in Canary Wharf are ready to welcome you and introduce the Patek Philippe collection. Book an appointment today to discover the story behind this iconic brand.
