Hi Baron,
"I am not sure that i agree with the idea that a Patek is only something that can be appreciated later in life...and after "REALLY" earning one. To my mind, we each remain teh arbiter of what we do or do not deserve."
I do agree.
"Is it right to stick a 5970P on the wrist of a teenager just by dint of teh fact that their Dad is wealthy? That would not be my way of doing it. The younger generation need to understand the value of what is on their wrist, and appreciate it as such. That need not take 40 years or more to occur"
Hopefully.
"I also think that Patek is affordable for an entry level in the secondary market. If someone wants one sooo badly, there are plenty of secondary market Pateks available at very reasonable prices. So in that sense, i am no sure its a good idea for Patek to introduce a cheaper watch for that role."
Don't take me wrong, I'm not asking for a cheaper Patek Philippe. Look at all these young men wearing RO Offshore. They can afford a PP, that's not the key.
"Look at the Porsche Boxter...its seen as the car that someone buys who cannot afford the 911."
Well I do like the Boxster. The only real + of the 911 today is the 2+2 configuration.
"An entry level Patek would
probably attach the same stigma. For a make like Patek, that is able to
charge a premium for its name and reputation, I think its dangerous
going down this path."
Again I'm not asking for a cheaper watch. A stainless steel calatrava with a new design and priced as an Aquanaut could well do it , no?
"I am also not sure i agree that Patek needs to be a more formal watch. I wear jeans 100% of the time. I'll wear my Patek with that. It doesn't make sense to me that a watch has a persona. Its teh owner that gives teh watch its persona to a greater degree"
Yes but not totally. If your watch looks like 50 years old, it looks like 50 years old.
"Interesting question...lots of interesting and diverse responses"
Sure, I'm happy of those and hope everybody is ready to discuss.
Cheers
Dje