The brand’s highly sought after 2018 metiers collection of wristwatches, pocket watches and clocks forms a free public exhibition opening in Geneva this morning, QP was one of the first through the door.

by James Buttery

Each year Patek Philippe creates an array of metiers d?art watches, pocket watches and its signature domed table clocks – pieces embellished with what the brand describes as rare handcrafts – that are not often seen outside of private collections, collector events or the closely guarded confines of the brand?s Baselworld pavilion.
That changes this week as Patek stages a public exhibition of the 50 pieces created for its 2018 Rare Handcrafts collection at the Geneva boutique it has owned since 1891.
Thierry and Sandrine Stern were on hand to host a press preview of the exhibition on Monday, which not only showcases the surprising breadth of Patek?s artistic expression through these pieces but offers live demonstrations of fine enamel painting, wood marquetry, engraving and engine turning.

The reason that these pieces are so rarely seen stems from the extraordinary demand for them. The pocket watches and table clocks are unique pieces, whilst a maximum of five pieces will be produced for each of the wristwatch designs. According to the third-generation CEO, there are normally 50-60 requests for each piece and it is left to him to whittle down the applicants and find a home for each piece based on information supplied...