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Patek Philippe

Collector, to be clear...

 

It seems you've accused plenty of nefarious Patek "flipping," on what basis I'm not sure. And while I don't appreciate you (nor anyone) leveling accusations at any person on this site, let me try to address your concerns, which as an aside I share, but would never address in the manner you've chosen.

I posted a photo of two sealed references which my AD, who's been the source of every single PP in my collection, sent to me to excitedly announce the arrival of my 5976, for which we've been waiting for some time. My 5650 arrived some time ago, but scheduling challenges delayed pickup. So, to my good fortune, I have two pieces about which I'm extremely excited awaiting my return.

Now, I've been purchasing PP from this specific AD for many years, ever since he took a call from a twenty-something looking to grow an until-that-point collection of other, non-PP pieces. Over the period, my collection has grown and my AD and I have developed a trust and friendship for many reasons, chief among them my loyalty to him and the brand, and my commitment to never, ever put he or me in a compromising position vis-a-vis PP. I am quite sure I haven't succeeded entirely - of course there have been bumps along the journey - but that is my intent. My AD takes his profession and his relationship with PP seriously, as do I. And I am proud to support him.

This loyalty has been rewarded, both by access to certain references, meetings with PP management, tours, etc. I'm sure many forum members here count themselves fortunate to have had similar experiences.

So to your concern. Along the way, my AD and I have developed a rhythm to our process. Im a rather detail oriented collector and insist I physically see / participate in the actual unsealing of my timepieces. This is a reflection upon me and my idiosyncrasies, nothing else. Hence the photo of sealed references.

To further assuage your fears, I can also tell you definitively that PP is taking steps to limit the grey market / flipper activity. Details aren't mine to share, but I know PP is not sitting idly.

Will this eliminate the problem? Of course not. We don't need to look far to see the proliferation of similar behavior in other collectible markets (hasn't the situation grown preposterously with certain auto OEs??). However, I do believe we - as a group of collectors - can influence the situation for the better. We can influence with our checkbooks, with our relationships, with the sharing of education and awareness, among others. And, in the interim, we can share our love of this little hobby of ours without rash judgement, but rather with support and encouragement for others who pursue the passion with honesty and integrity.

I hope you will agree...enough said. Let's return to enjoying one another's successes.

5980

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