May 1, 2014, marks an important milestone in the Swiss watch industry. It is 175 years ago to the day that Patek Philippe — perhaps the world’s most prestigious Swiss watch brand, and the last family-owned watch company in Geneva — was founded.
In a letter released to the press, Patek Philippe president Thierry Stern states:
“Today, May 1, 2014, I am happy to announce the 175th anniversary of Patek Philippe, and the imminent launch of a special timeline at patek.com to showcase our history – the longest uninterrupted history of any watch brand. The timeline will be continuously enriched throughout the year, with fascinating stories from our past and present.
“We believe that one of the secrets of our success has been our independence (we are the last family-owned watch manufacture in Geneva). Over the years, this freedom has allowed us to be truly creative, innovative, and pioneering – as demonstrated in our impressive repertoire of patents, our unique designs, and our dedication to rare handcrafts.
“My great grandfather, Charles Stern, and his brother Jean, took the reins of Patek Philippe in 1932. It was Charles’ son – my grandfather, Henri Stern -and my father, Philippe, who inspired my passion to stay true to the vision of the company’s founders, and to keep creating and producing the best watches in the world.
“I feel proud to be at the company’s helm during this most important historical milestone. And I look forward to maintaining the long-standing spirit of creativity and innovation for which the company is known.
“May I take this opportunity to thank you for sharing our passion for Patek Philippe.”
To mark its 175th anniversary year, Patek Philippe unveiled a new, larger booth (below) at this year’s Baselworld watch fair in March, and launched a handful of new timepieces, including the Nautilus Travel Time Chronograph (Ref. 5990/1A-001; you can read a review of it here) and Annual Calendar Calendar Chronograph (Ref. 5960/1A-001). Patek told WatchTime at the fair that more new watches (including, possibly, some special anniversary editions?) will be launched in the fall.
No Responses to “Patek Philippe Celebrates its 175th Anniversary”
I noticed that in this article Patek is family owned and the last business as such in Switzerland. My question is: what about Gallet? Are they not still family owned, and have been since 1466. Someone please clarify for me. Congratulations to Patek! Truly a great manufacture.
You’re absolutely right about Gallet. According to my understanding they are still a family owned business. Indeed, their website confirms this on The Gallet Dynasty section
Belated congratulations on the 175th birthday of Patek Philippe!
Love my 5054 and am looking for another Patek soon!
Cheers
Congratulations on your 175 years. Continue making magnificent watches. Owner of ladies 24 n love my timepiece
Congratulations to Mr Stern and his family at Patek Philippe, a true horological behemoth and one of the great watch makers around.
It is great to see that Patek has remained a family business. Alas, this is a rarity nowadays.
Thank you for the article.
Yours
Dr Kaye
May god be with you all the time. Owner pateck philip
There cannot be any doubt about the fact that Patek Philippe is the most prestigious watch brand in the entire world!
Thank you for informing us about Patek Philippe’s 175th Anniversary!
I noticed that in this article Patek is family owned and the last business as such in Switzerland. My question is: what about Gallet? Are they not still family owned, and have been since 1466. Someone please clarify for me. Congratulations to Patek! Truly a great manufacture.
Hi Mike
You’re absolutely right about Gallet. According to my understanding they are still a family owned business. Indeed, their website confirms this on The Gallet Dynasty section
Yours
Dr Kaye