Patek Philippe

As a collector of watches for a number of years (Tag - Omega - Rolex - JLC - VC - Breguet), I have come to the stage where I am looking to purchase my first Patek.

I am looking to acquire a classic piece with simple complications - I have my mindset on the 5146G (cream dial) which to me is a timeless (excuse the pun) classic and embraces everything that is so great about the brand (elegance, class and very understated).

From conversations with a number of AD's I have been told that the 5135 is going to be phased out shortly and that I may want to consider getting this instead whilst I can.

I think I'm certain on the 5146 but do have a few random questions that I would be grateful for assistance on:-

1) Is there a general "shelf life" for PP's before they are phased out, replaced, or updated?

2) Given that the 5146 is one of the more readily available models is it considered to be less desirable in the secondry market and is this likely to be around for longer than some of the less well known / less advertised models?

3) is there a chance that PP will look to upgrade the 324 Caliber to include silicon parts

4) is it worth waiting until after Baselworld incase they launch something new

5) Whilst I also like the clean lines and elegance of the updated 5396 - does anyone else find this watch remarkably similar to the Girard Perregaux 1966, if so was the GP launced first and can it be considered as a comparable watch (quality of caliber, heritage of the specific watch). Clearly I appreciate the differences between the two brands but  I am thinking that I could acquire the GP 1966 at a later date and thus focus on the 5146 rather than being distracted by the new kid on the block (5396).

As it is my first PP is there anything specific that I should know eg removal of the Geneve seal on the packaging, registration with PP owners club (as with Breguet) etc etc.

Finally is there any information i can get that would show me the evolution in sales of Patek versus some of its peers such as VC, JLC and Breguet? I know there is growing demand for all these brands from emerging markets (particularly China) and just want to get some assurance on the exclusivity of the respective names. Also is there any way to track the price changes for a specific model, to compare this to the general level of inflation / change in the price of gold.

Apologies for the number of questions - I am keen to consolidate my knowledge of the brand and its products to fully immerse myself in my first buying experience.

 

Thanks

 

Ben

 

 

Go with what you like.

I owned a cream dial 5146G and totally loved it.

Buy what you like and you won't have to worry about your questions.

Its also best to try one on, get a feel for it in person before you buy.

whatever AD told you most likely because they want to clear their inventory.

good luck and once you decided, please show us wrist shot thou...LOL

guys for your advice - esp Erich for your detailed post.

Looks like I will end up going for the 5146G / Cream

Problem is I think this will only serve to fuel my addiction and I will be looking for my next watch before the summer arrives....

 

Hi Ben,

a lot of questions you have... I understand your thoughts very well because you are going to spend a lot of bucks...

Some fellow members have pointed out that the most important fact is that the watch "talks to your heart".

If you can say "yes" to a special model it will be a pleasure every day you wear it and every time you look at it.

It will be like falling in love with a beautiful girl - you will not be able to take your eyes away from it  - at least for the first months, and hopefully for a lifetime

Concerning some of your questions:

I would always go for Patek if I had to chose between several brands!

It is rather difficult to observe prices and " value -keeping" in a rapidly changing market. A watch which is very desirable in our days may be less in 10 years as fashion 

and desire change over the times...  We have seen this even on Patek models, specially the rectangular vintage models... very high prices in the 90ies and moderate prices now. I am pretty sure that smaller cases and rectangular ones will have their revival some day, but nobody knows how long it will take, it is just a guess...

Don´t see a Patek as a mere investment!   They usually  keep their value very well, but what is much more important: You will enjoy every second you wear them, and this is most important IMO!

Go for it if it talks to you!

kind regards

Erich

Welcome to this crazy world called Horology.

Just to add to this thread of discussion.

I have been given an offer to buy a used 5035R at a reasonable price. I read 1 or 2 posts talking about some issues with the 315 auto cal in this watch.

Like Ben, this will be my first PP, I would like to get the views of friends here on this forum on their experiences owning the watch.

I am also thinking that the 5035R may wear a little small at 37mm (with a small crown and no crown guard).

I would also appreciate anyone with wristshots of 5035R or how 5035R compared to 5146R to post the pics here.

Thanks!