When it comes to luxury watches, Patek Philippe is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the world. Their watches are some of the most highly sought-after timepieces worldwide and are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious design.

But why are Patek Philippe watches so expensive and special? Why do they cost more than other watches?

In this article, we will take a look at some of the reasons why Patek Philippes are so costly and see if they are really an investment worth making. 

How much does a Patek Philippe watch cost?

Patek Philippe watches are some of the most expensive in the world, with prices starting at around £17,279 and going up to over £399,082 and more for some of their limited edition and Haute Horlogerie pieces.

Regarding luxury timepieces, Patek Philippe watches are in a particular category. Even with so many Swiss watches regarded as luxury items, only a few brands gain value with time. One of these companies is Patek Philippe, a brand that becomes more valuable when used than purchased brand new. 

In fact, in a 2019 CNN report, a Patek Philippe watch has sold at an auction for over £25,596,855, making it the most expensive auctioned timepiece worldwide.

Here are some of Patek Philippe’s most popular watches along with their prices:

Why are Patek Philippes so expensive?

Known for its luxury watches, Patek Philippe sells some of the finest watches in the world. While many factors contribute to the high cost of Patek Philippe watches, four of the most important reasons include quality, handwork, heritage, and value.

QUALITY

A premium watchmaker, Patek Philippe creates timepieces that are typically made from precious metals and stones, like gold, platinum, and diamond.

With the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, Patek Philippe's timepieces are designed to last a lifetime. The company has been making watches since 1839, and each one is made with the utmost care and precision.

Patek Philippe is also one of the only watch companies in the world that still makes all of its components, from the movement to the case and dial.

In simple terms, they have complete control over the quality of their watches. With skill and precision, you can pass down every timepiece through generations of collectors for its long-lasting quality.

HANDWORK

Patek Philippe watches are some of the most complicated and intricate in the world. The company employs only highly skilled watchmakers trained in the art of watchmaking. 

These artisans create exquisite timepieces by hand, crafting each component with decades of experience in the industry.

Because of their meticulous process, it can take months or even years to create even one of their complex watches. From the initial design to the final product, each Patek Philippe watch is handmade with the utmost attention to detail.

Every element of a Patek Philippe watch is a work of art, from the delicate filigree work on the dials to the tourbillon cages that rotate on the movement. The result is a timepiece that not only tells time with accuracy and beauty but also conveys a sense of craftsmanship and artistry that is unmatched in the watchmaking world.

HERITAGE

Patek Philippe has a long and rich history, dating back to 1839. It's a brand that has been around for more than 180 years, and it’s one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world.

In addition, the company was founded by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Adrien Philippe in 1839 as a partnership between two jewelers who specialized in luxury jewelry. Since then, the company has been at the forefront of watchmaking for centuries, producing some of the most iconic and innovative timepieces in history.

The company has been passed down through generations of the same family, and it remains one of the few family-owned watch companies worldwide.

Patek Philippe's heritage is a big part of what makes the brand so unique. The company is strongly committed to tradition and quality and shows this commitment in its timepieces.

Its watches are steeped in history and tradition, which is significantly reflected in their high prices. The brand is synonymous with luxury and prestige, and it has a reputation for being one of the best watchmakers in the world.

Today, Patek Philippe continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, crafting exquisite watches that collectors and enthusiasts around the world cherish. With a Patek Philippe on your wrist, you can be sure that you're wearing a piece of horological history.

VALUE

Patek Philippe watches are not only expensive because of their quality, handwork, and heritage. They are also good items to purchase. 

While the initial price tag of a Patek Philippe watch may be high, the value of the watch will only increase over time. Patek Philippe watches are some of the most sought-after timepieces in the world, and they regularly fetch high prices at auctions.

Despite its hefty price tag, Patek Philippe watches have a huge demand and following. As they are some of the most coveted timepieces in the world, the value of one watch can appreciate over time. 

The high demand for Patek Philippe watches has led to a thriving secondary market, where pre-owned and vintage models can sell for tens, thousands, and even millions of dollars. 

If you're looking for a watch that will hold its value (or even increase in value) with time, then a Patek Philippe is a wise choice.

Not only will you enjoy wearing a beautiful and well-made watch, but you'll also have a valuable asset you can give to your kids and other generations to come.

Which Patek Philippe watch is the least expensive?

The basic Patek Philippe collection is Aquanaut. The initial MSRP for this collection's reference 5167A is £17,815.57. 

There are precious metal allusions, such as the 5968G, which is the most expensive in the series at £56,935.76 MSRP. The MSRP of an Aquanaut is around £35,385.99, making it one of Patek's more affordable collections.

What is the most expensive Patek Philippe Collection?

The Grand Complications line is the most expensive out of all the Patek Philippe offerings. A Grand Complication typically costs around £246,927 MSRP.

The reference 5327J, at £75,938.28 MRSP, is the least costly watch in the Patek Philippe Grand Complication line, while the reference 5372P, at £399,198.65 MSRP, is the most expensive. 

The Patek Grand Complication watches are the most distinguished of all the collections and are contemporary watchmaking wonders. Instead of being sold on the used market, you're more likely to witness these timepieces being passed down in families. 

However, if you do find one on a secondhand market, be prepared to pay a steep premium.

Is Patek Philippe the most expensive watch manufacturer in the world?

No. Despite making and selling incredibly costly watches, there are other manufacturers that create more expensive watches, like Rolex and Audemars Piguet.

Although the world’s most expensive auctioned watch is from Patek Philippe, the most expensive watch in the world is from Graff Diamonds— a watch called Hallucination, priced at £45,272,425.

Is Patek Philippe the best watch in the world?

It's up for debate who manufactures the finest watch in the world. Different people may have biases, varying opinions, and diverse viewpoints. 

However, one thing is for sure. Everyone can agree that Patek Philippe is regarded as a top-tier watch manufacturer, which is something remarkable.

Are Patek Philippe watches considered an investment?

Patek Philippe watches are considered an investment. Not only are they expensive to purchase, but they also appreciate in value over time.

So, if you're thinking of purchasing a Patek Philippe watch, you can rest assured knowing that you're not only getting a beautiful timepiece but also a wise investment even for the next decades to come.

What are other noteworthy Patek Philippe timepieces?

Some of Patek Philippe’s other beautiful and noteworthy models include the following:

1. Custom Diamond Set Patek Philippe Nautilus Rose Gold 5711/1R Watch (£154,995.00) 

This Patek Philippe timepiece is a luxurious rose gold watch surrounded by round-cut diamonds. It is perfect for ladies who want to make a statement through sparkly, heavy-bling items on their wrists. Shop here

2. Patek Philippe Complications World Time Yellow Gold 5131J-001 (£99,995.00) 

Who says you can’t look at the time without appreciating the beauty of the world? 

This world-time yellow gold watch from Patek Philippe’s Complications Collection comes with a brown, pure leather strap to complete and accentuate any contemporary outfit with class. Shop here

3. Patek Philippe Complications White Gold Blue Leather Strap 5930G-001 (£64,995.00) 

Another notable timepiece from Patek Philippe’s Complications Collection is this white gold blue leather strap watch that’s made for every adventurer who likes to take on every experience in sleek and style. Shop here

4. Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Calatrava 5120J Yellow Gold White Dial (​​£11,995.00) 

This Patek Philippe Calatrava 5120J timepiece is a yellow gold watch that’s great for every polished individual who aims for that simple yet elegant look. Shop here

5. Patek Philippe Golden Eclipse 3738–100 J (£10,995.00) 

This beautiful, classic watch from Patek Philippe’s Golden Eclipse Collection blends simplicity, sophistication, and opulence in its navy blue dial, gold accent, and black straps — making it the perfect timepiece for every young and modern gentleman to date. Shop here

Conclusion

Patek Philippe watches may be some of the most expensive watches in the world. But these timepieces are exceptional as every piece is made with a combination of quality, handwork, heritage, and utmost value.

Patek Philippe watches are also sought-after, and buying one means handing a legacy or an heirloom that your family can cherish even in the decades to come, making these exquisite timepieces a wise investment as their value greatly appreciates with time.

Buy a Patek Philippe from us today. Check out our website to enjoy exclusive deals on your dream watches.