Patek Philippe was founded in 1839 in Geneva, Switzerland, by Polish watchmaker Antoine Norbert de Patek and French horologist Adrien Philippe, the inventor of the keyless winding mechanism. Since its inception, the brand has been synonymous with prestige, innovation, and fine craftsmanship. Patek Philippe pioneered many horological milestones, including the first wristwatch (1868), the perpetual calendar mechanism, and some of the world’s most complicated mechanical timepieces. In 1932, the Stern family took over the company, ensuring its independence and continuity to this day. Known for iconic collections such as the Calatrava, Nautilus, and Grand Complications, Patek Philippe is regarded by collectors as the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking. Its timepieces often achieve record-breaking auction results and are passed down as heirlooms across generations, living up to the brand’s motto: “You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.”