Patek Philippe, founded in Geneva in 1839, is widely regarded as the most prestigious watchmaker in the world. The family-owned company holds over 100 patents and created some of the most complicated watches ever made, including the Calibre 89 (33 complications) and Grandmaster Chime (20 complications).
Every Patek Philippe movement bears the Patek Philippe Seal, guaranteeing accuracy of -3/+2 seconds per day for mechanical movements — surpassing the COSC standard. The company produces approximately 62,000 watches per year, a fraction of Rolex's output, contributing to extreme scarcity.
Patek Philippe maintains extremely tight distribution control. Popular models like the Nautilus and Aquanaut are virtually impossible to purchase at retail without an extensive purchase history. Many collectors wait years and purchase multiple "entry" pieces before being offered a steel sport model.
Patek Philippe recommends servicing every 5-10 years depending on the movement. Service costs are significantly higher than other brands, typically $1,500-$3,000+ for standard models and more for complicated pieces. However, the brand offers lifetime serviceability for every watch ever produced.
Patek Philippe watches, particularly the Nautilus and Aquanaut lines, command some of the highest premiums on the secondary market. Steel sport models often trade at 2-3x retail price. Patek's slogan "You never actually own a Patek Philippe, you merely look after it for the next generation" accurately reflects their investment characteristics.
Ranked by WVS Value Score — the models that best preserve your investment.
| # | Model | Market | Own/Yr | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nautilus 5811/1G-001 | $150,000 | $420/yr | 86 |
| 2 | Nautilus 5712/1A-001 | $125,000 | $370/yr | 86 |
| 3 | Nautilus 5980/1A-001 | $120,000 | $360/yr | 86 |
| 4 | Aquanaut 5168G-001 | $77,500 | $275/yr | 86 |
| 5 | Aquanaut 5167A-001 | $60,000 | $240/yr | 85 |
| 6 | Grand Complications 5320G-001 | $102,500 | $3708/yr | 76 |
| 7 | Grand Complications 5270P-001 | $215,000 | $7645/yr | 75 |
| 8 | Calatrava 5227G-010 | $33,000 | $2595/yr | 73 |
| 9 | Calatrava 5227R-001 | $33,000 | $2595/yr | 73 |
Each collection has a distinct character — from tool watches to haute horlogerie. Click through for full model comparisons.
Iconic luxury sports watch designed by Gérald Genta
Modern luxury sports watch with tropical strap
Perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, and tourbillons
Quintessential round dress watch
See how Patek Philippe stacks up against other luxury watch brands.