Learn About Investing in the World’s Premier Timepieces
In the world of exquisitely crafted luxury watches, there is one name that stands above all others: Patek Philippe. Founders Antoni Patek and Adrien Philippe were some of the most celebrated watchmakers of their generation, earning them a legacy of greatness that lives on in their company today. While watchmaking has come a long way and seen many innovations since their day, one thing remains the same. Patek Philippe watches push the boundaries and raise the expectations of what a luxury watch should be.
Today, collectors and investors alike see pieces from Patek Philippe as a valuable investment opportunity with the potential for great financial gains. If you are considering taking part in this market but aren’t sure where to begin, we’ll break down some of the most vital information to know about the investment value of Patek Philippe watches.
What Makes a Patek Philippe Watch Desirable for Collectors?
It’s important to consider exactly why Patek Philippe watches are so sought after by collectors around the world. Throughout the history of the company, Patek Philippe watches have been known for their gorgeous designs and incredible craftsmanship. While there are many other luxury watch brands out there, few can hold a candle to the beauty of a Patek Philippe and the quality standards the company sets for itself.
Aside from that, certain market conditions and perceptions help to drive up the value of Patek Philippe watches. The legacy of a brand like this cannot be understated, and the name itself makes any of these watches instantly desirable. Additionally, these watches are exclusive and limited, as there are only a certain number of them made in each collection. This rarity ensures that collectors will dig deep into their wallets to own a prized piece.
Overall, Patek Philippe watches are a step above the rest and hold their incredible value because of their scarcity and recognizable legacy. Simply put, everyone wants to own the best to elevate their status.
What Value Can You Expect from a Patek Philippe Watch?
Patek Philippe watches hold immense value among investors and collectors. In our last post, we mentioned how in 2019, the Grandmaster Chime 6300A-010 set the record as the most expensive watch ever sold at auction. This rare piece sold for $31.19 million at the Only Watch Auction in Geneva, and it’s far from the only Patek Philippe watch to make headlines. Nine out of the top ten most expensive watches sold at auction are from Patek Philippe, ranging in price from $6.5 million to just under $24 million. It is notable to mention that this rarified list includes vintage pieces as well as modern pieces, showcasing the timelessness of these pieces and how Patek Philippe remains committed to excellent quality today.
With all that said, not every Patek Philippe watch costs millions of dollars to purchase. Lower-end (but still incredible) Patek Philippe pieces typically cost in the tens of thousands of dollars. Models from the Complications and Calatrava lines are notable examples of this, and they provide potential new investors and collectors a safer way to dip their toes into the market. In the resale market, pieces from these collections tend to be around $10 thousand, give or take a few thousand depending on the exact piece.
There are also plenty of options to choose from in the six-figure range. Watches from the Grand Complications line are in this price range and hold decent value in the resale market.
It should be noted that while the vast majority of Patek Philippe watches hold and maintain strong resale value, some models like the Nautilus jump drastically in price over the years. This should be taken into consideration for those looking to invest in one of these pieces.
What Should You Look for Before Investing?
Being an informed investor is crucial when breaking into a new market. If you’re considering investing in Patek Philippe watches, the first factor you should consider is, of course, the model of the watch. Do you want to invest in a vintage watch that has been prized for decades? Or would you rather invest in a modern model that may skyrocket in popularity in the coming years? Researching the appeal of relevant models and collections and understanding the latest trends will help you make sound investments.
Alongside this, strongly consider only investing in watches that come with the original box and papers that verify the watch’s authenticity. These are items that collectors generally favor to ensure they have a complete collection. They also help you ensure that you’re investing in a legitimate piece.
Finally, you should always do your business through a trusted, knowledgeable dealer. Patek Philippe watches are no small investment, so protecting yourself from potential frauds and dishonest dealers is paramount, or else you risk major financial loss.
Consult with Joshua Kodner Galleries for Your Patek Philippe Investments
If you’re ready to invest in these timeless timepieces, it’s easy to find a reputable source for your first piece. You can buy and sell Patek Philippe watches through the auctioneers at Joshua Kodner Galleries. We have experience dealing with these watches and are committed to fair and honest pricing. Throughout the years, we’ve sold Patek Philippe watches and a wide array of other luxury goods, like jewelry and fine art, to discerning clients in Dania Beach, FL, and far beyond. If you’re interested in buying or selling Patek Philippe watches, contact our friendly professionals, and they’ll be happy to give you the assistance you need.
