Come June 19th and it is time to celebrate National Watch Day. A day dedicated to an item that is found almost everywhere, yet one that is ever evolving and deeply personal. Yes, the wrist watch. While the smart watch has risen in popularity, the charm of a classic wrist watch is often unmatched. Watch makers have been crafting time pieces since time immemorial and their craft is a true reflection of niche skill, talent and immense attention to detail. World Watch Day is an ode to the wrist watch and its makers who have been responsible for transforming this ubiquitous instrument into a lifestyle statement, fashion accessory and even a family heirloom. And if you are a fan of watches, a collector or someone who appreciates fine handiwork, the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva must be on your list. A symbol of top-notch craftsmanship, luxury and exclusivity, Patek Philippe is arguably one of the best-known watch brands in the world.
Timeless Heritage
A name synonymous with horological excellence, Patek Philippe founded originally by Antoine Norbert de Patek and Jean Adrien Philippe is owned by the Stern family since 1932 and is based in the Swiss city of Geneva. The Patek Philippe museum located in the heart of the Plainpalais district of the city honors the unmatched legacy of the brand and showcases a collection of watches spanning centuries. Since its opening in 2001, the museum is one of the most renowned cultural landmarks of Geneva and promises an insightful visit for anyone interested in horology and the world of time instruments. Spread over three floors, the museum housed in an art deco building boasts of an awe-inspiring collection of over 2500 watches that span five centuries of Swiss watchmaking artistry.
An ideal way to start your exploration of the museum, is by opting to view the short but engaging film that traces the journey of how the paths of Patek and Philippe crossed and the start of Patek Philippe watches. The crisp film gives visitors a chance to understand the glorious heritage of the company and the history of clocks in Geneva in the 15th century. On display on the ground floor are a plethora of vintage tools related to watch making with informative boards on their uses. From tools used by the engraver and those used by the jeweler to all the steps that are needed to complete a hand, this section gives visitors an idea of how complex and intricate the process of watch making is. High precision gadgets and machinery required for various steps like gem setting, enameling, polishing, finishing etc. are also on display.
There are elaborate workbenches of the yesteryears that showcase all the tools used by master watchmakers. Further, guests can also see an artisanal watchmaker in action on the same floor. While here do not miss the different models of pendant winders as imagined by Adrien Philippe during those times. Also on display are documents pertaining to original patents, designs and other correspondence dating to the 19th century.
Treasure house of watches
On the first floor there is a vast collection of wrist watches and pocket watches right from the inception of the company in 1839 to the present. From highly ornate pieces that reflect the superior expertise of the makers to embellished pieces, this section has it all. Complementing the display are yesteryear photographs which reveal the level of discussion and detail that went into the creation of such masterpieces.
The museum also houses a large collection of decorative and artistic watches including those crafted like insects engraved with precious gemstones, those shaped like keys and even pretty flowers! There are also portraits on enamel and snuff boxes that have been painstakingly hand painted with total precision. All these pieces speak volumes of the talent yesteryear artists had. The elaborate pendulum table clocks as well as a clock shaped in the form of a vase are noteworthy. The latter is replete with eight singing birds and a musical cylinder with three melodies which are played successively at each hour. Brilliant handiwork indeed that dates back to the 19th century! Apart from plain wrist watches there are bracelet watches embellished with gemstones like corals and lapis lazuli and even onyx. Needless to say, the work on each one of them is immaculate, elaborate and complex without being ostentatious or flashy.
Another key feature of the museum is its library that contains several books and manuscripts related to all aspects of horology. There are also books and catalogues that have been published by the library. These are essentially illustrated guides highlighting some of the company’s most exquisite pieces. They showcase the company’s history of over 500 years and detail the art, science and mechanics of watch making and can be purchased online. The museum also conducts guided tours for groups and students which can be booked in advance.
