Why is Patek Philippe Nautilus expensive?
Firstly, Patek Philippe produces a very limited number of watches compared to many other luxury watch brands, ensuring a sense of exclusivity that is rare. While a brand like Rolex makes around a million watches each year, Patek Philippe’s production is estimated at just about 60,000 pieces. Obviously, Pateks are more expensive, but that doesn’t necessarily make them “better” in the grand scheme of things. Patek has been making watches for 180 years, while Rolex has only been around for 110,” notes Bob’s Watches founder and renowned Rolex collector, Paul Altieri.Wear and Tear: Wearing a Rolex watch provides the necessary motion and winding required to keep it in optimal condition. Without regular use, certain components such as gears, springs, and rotors can experience increased wear and tear. This can result in diminished performance and the need for more frequent servicing.With the enduring quality of the Rolex, even if the watch is over 20 years old, you are ensured the same technology, precision and scalability of a watch made today. What’s more, you are buying a piece of history whose prices continue to rise year after year.
Who owns Patek Philippe now?
Established in 1839, it is named after two of its founders, Antoni Patek and Adrien Philippe. Since 1932, the company has been owned by the Stern family in Switzerland and remains the last family-owned independent watch manufacturer in Geneva. The Trinity or ‘big three’ is a nickname given to the most luxurious watchmaking brands in the world. At the top of their game, the three watchmaking companies are Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe.Both brands represent exceptional quality in the luxury watch market. Patek Philippe wins for traditional craftsmanship and exclusivity, while Rolex excels in innovation, reliability, and accessibility. The “better” choice depends on your personal priorities, lifestyle, and budget.The dominance of the “Big Four” luxury watch brands—Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Richard Mille—strengthened, gaining +203 basis points and securing an impressive combined 43.As such, the Holy Trinity of Watches is made up of three ultra-high-end Swiss watch brands: Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Patek Philippe. All three of these prestigious brands boast very long histories, which not only demonstrate centuries-old experience, but also continued relevance in today’s market.