Collectors path - the tale of a young Patek collector

How did you get started as a collector?

It all began with my father, actually. He’s a collector. I’d go out with him while he browsed through watch stores, seeing what caught his eye. I started to pay attention as well, looked at catalogues, the watches, everything. It was quite an adventure. If the sales clerks couldn’t get a particular watch for us, we would go find it ourselves. Two weeks later, back in the shop, they would see the model on our wrist and ask: “How did you get a hold of that?”

What is your favourite brand?

Oh, Patek Philippe, by far. It delivers such high quality, classy watches. And you can wear them casually.

How did you get your first Patek?

I saved the money I got for my birthdays. I’d put it into one account managed by my dad. And two years ago, when I really started to become a passionate collector, I decided to acquire a particular watch. We went to four or five sources, we called the service centre in New York, we sent them pictures, we had everything checked out. My dad and I almost never buy a watch OFF the cuff. We always go in, come out, see if it is a good price, and then we buy it.

And which one did you buy?

The one I am wearing.

Which is ...?

Oh god! The model 2056, I think.

How old is it?

It’s 56 years old. That is MIND BOTTLING   … it’s older than my dad! 

Why did you pick this one?

I wanted something I can wear anywhere. Something subtle, not extravagant. I had a limited price ceiling. And I knew someone who could get me the watch for a great price.

What would be your next Patek?

I love the 5711, the one on my father’s wrist now. I really love that watch. My next watch will probably be something like a 5711 or a 5235, a mid-level collector’s watch, but still very high value.

What about the models in your dad’s collection?

Probably the 175th anniversary timepiece. It is unique. You never see it. I've been observing Patek for years, tracking past auctions, for years and years – I’m talking 10, 15 years – and I still haven’t seen anything like it.

Is there any special period or model that you like in particular?

I enjoy the Patek split-seconds models. I remember the 5004 at auctions. I was a kid… It was, and still is, my favourite watch. The iterations also caught my eye, like the 5204, 5304. They are special. It’s a rare watch. Rolex has never come out with a split-seconds chronograph in their whole history.

If you had to choose one, would you take a vintage Patek Philippe or a more modern model?

It depends. With a vintage piece, the price is going to stay about the same. The damage or profit is already a thing of the past.

There won’t be a big decrease or increase unless something drastic happens – if you destroy it, or something. New watches always have potential... to go up or down. So, it depends on which watch and what price range.

Would you consider other brands?

Of course. I love Patek but If I’d spot something I really like by Bvlgari, Vacheron, or Rolex, I would consider it. If it is the right watch. Even if I prefer Patek.

What about collecting a specific complication, like aviator watches, or diving watches?

I talked about this with my dad and he said, he made a mistake. He bought everything. He should have focussed on one special type of watch. He likes real vintage pieces, like the 2523 WORLDTIMER and 2499 PERPETUAL CHRONOGRAPH WATCH. That’s the kind of watch he is passionate about. I will probably focus on split-seconds, perpetual, minute repeaters.

What would you say to young fellow collectors? How to start?

Rule one, save up your money... and don’t jump on the first thing you see.

You might see something that you think is the ultimate watch, but you should see other watches, too. Take your time. You may well run into something you really want down the road!