Patek Philippe Art Expo Hits London
A fine luxury watch isn’t just a timepiece, it’s also a piece of art and this is never truer than in the case of legendary Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe. For the next few days, lovers of this brand can fully appreciate the watch as art as Patek Philippe takes over the Saatchi Gallery in London.
The “Watch Art Patek Philippe Grand Exhibition” gives visitors the opportunity to admire more than 400 timepieces spanning the rich history of the watchmaker. Items belonging to famous customers as well as the Patek Philippe Museum Collection include a dazzling jeweled watch made from pearls that is on loan to the exhibit from the Queen of England.
One of the more interesting pieces on display is the first wristwatch ever made for a woman. Patek Philippe sold the thin strip of gold with a hidden dial to Countess Koscowicz of Hungary in 1868.
Visitors may wander from room to room taking in the rich history and artistry of Patek Philippe. One room is dedicated to “complications,” while another shows films on the founding of the company. The Patek Philippe salon in Geneva’s Rue de Rhone has been recreated in the exhibit’s Napoleon Room.
Fans of the fine craftsmanship that goes into a luxury watch can get an inside look at the making of a Patek Philippe timepiece in the Rare Handicrafts Artisan’s Room. Here the enamel painters, gem setters, engravers and other experts display their skills while conversing with visitors.
The most spectacular exhibits may be found in the Rare Handicrafts Gallery and Museum rooms, which feature fabulous dome clocks, pocket watches and other unique pieces dating back to the 16th century.
The “Watch Art Patek Philippe Grand Exhibition” can be viewed at the Saatchi Gallery in London May 27 to June 7.
