The Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva Exhibit the Largest “Rare Handcrafts” Collection Ever
- wgclients01
- Jul 9, 2024
- 2 min read
If you're heading to Geneva, don't miss this special watch exhibition! From April 13 to 27, 2024, you can explore the new Patek Philippe “Rare Handcrafts 2024” collection at the historic building on rue du Rhône. This collection features 82 timepieces showcasing both technical mastery and boundless creativity. The event includes live demonstrations by artisan engravers, enamellers, guillocheurs (engine-turners), and wood-marquetry makers.
Patek Philippe, a guardian of the Genevan watchmaking tradition since 1839, has always preserved and promoted the rare handcrafts that decorate timepieces. The Stern family, who took over in 1932, has continued this legacy, constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity.
The “Rare Handcrafts 2024” collection includes a variety of pieces: 27 dome clocks and small dome clocks, 3 table clocks, 9 pocket watches, and 43 wristwatches. It highlights a vast range of artistic skills, from centuries-old techniques like Grand Feu cloisonné enamel and hand engraving to modern innovations like micro wood marquetry.
The collection's themes are equally diverse, drawing inspiration from traditional art forms to modern leisure activities and the cultures and landscapes of every continent. The exhibition is divided into three areas, each showcasing the unique decorations and craftsmanship of the pieces.
In the central area, visitors are greeted by twelve Calatrava wristwatches representing the zodiac constellations. These watches feature dials adorned with various enamel techniques, creating a modern and striking look.
The salon facing the lake groups pieces that pay tribute to nature, with detailed decorations of flora, fauna, and landscapes. Highlights include the “Portrait of a White Egret” pocket watch and the “Japanese Garden” Golden Ellipse wristwatch.
The salon on rue du Rhône celebrates human endeavor with themes ranging from surfing and American cars to billiards and the works of famous artists like Alfons Mucha and Gustav Klimt.
The exhibition also includes demonstrations by artisans, showcasing techniques such as hand engraving, enameling, and marquetry. Visitors can see these experts at work and learn about the tools and processes involved.
The “Rare Handcrafts 2024” exhibition is open to the public with free admission. It runs from April 13 to 27, 2024, at the Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva, at 41 rue du Rhône, every day except Sunday, from 11:00 to 18:00 (last entry at 17:00). Visitors are encouraged to register online at patek.com.
Following its Geneva presentation, the exhibition will move to the Patek Philippe Salons in Bond Street, London, from June 7 to 16, 2024. This is a unique opportunity to admire these exceptional creations before they join private collections worldwide.
