The Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva showcased its most extensive Rare Handcrafts collection in spring this year. This exclusive exhibit, hosted at the historic rue du Rhône location, featured 82 extraordinary timepieces that blend technical mastery with artistic creativity. Visitors got to enjoy live demonstrations by skilled artisans, including engravers, enamellers, guillocheurs and wood marquetry specialists.
Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe has upheld Geneva’s rich watchmaking tradition, and the Stern family, which has guided the brand since 1932, continues to cherish these rare techniques. The Rare Handcrafts 2024 collection emphasises both traditional and innovative methods. It included a diverse array of pieces – 27 dome and small dome clocks, three table clocks, nine pocket watches, and 43 wristwatches – showcasing centuries-old techniques like Grand Feu cloisonné enamel, miniature painting on enamel and innovations in horology like micro wood marquetry.
Highlights of the collection included Calatrava wristwatches adorned with zodiac signs in various enamel techniques, and timepieces celebrating nature, such as pocket watches featuring white egrets in wood marquetry.Other designs drew inspiration from global landscapes and artistic themes, from Japanese gardens to Venetian views, rendered in exquisite enamel and panting. For example, the beauty of Lake Thun in Switzerland is gracing a World Time Minute Repeater wristwatch. The exhibition also celebrated human endeavours with unique pieces inspired by American trains, the Paris Olympic Games of 1924, feminine curves and billiards, among other themes.
Asia Dreams Volume 52
Patek Philippe
W: patek.com
IG: @patekphilippe
