In this episode, we trace the history and development of the Patek Philippe Manufacture and its historical buildings - from the earliest days in 1839 through to today, and the opening of the new production facility in Geneva.
Patek Philippe celebrates the completion of its new production building in Geneva and marks the occasion with the launch of a limited-edition timepiece.
In early 2020, the manufacture completed the construction work that had started in 2015. The highly modern architecture of this structure unites all of the manufacture’s Genevan ateliers under one roof, and offers ample space for the rare handcrafts professionals and training facilities.
With its impressive dimensions (10 floors and a length of nearly 200 meters), the expansion anticipates the manufacture’s growth in the next 20 to 30 years. The new building reasserts Patek Philippe’s Genevan roots and its confidence in the future of watchmaking artistry that perfectly melds tradition and innovation.
Special Edition Calatrava Ref. 6007A
The completion of the structure is celebrated with the commemorative watch Calatrava Ref. 6007 in steel stands crafted in a limited edition of 1000 pieces. Featuring a sapphire-crystal caseback specially marked with a Calatrava cross and the “New Manufacture 2019” inscription. 2019 is the year when the first work groups moved into the new production building.
Discover more about the Ref. 6007A-001
In 1996, Patek Philippe relocated its manufacture and headquarters to newly-built premises in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva.
Moving into this new building and uniting all the production facilities under one roof marked the beginning of a new era for the company.
Soon after, yet more space was needed and a case and bracelet workshop was opened in nearby Perly, Geneva in 2003.
This was followed in 2010 by a new facility in Plan-les-Ouates for the production of components used in the Manufacture's movements.
Today the Patek Philippe’s historic manufacturing headquarters are dedicated to customers and uniquely showcase the entirety of the Manufacture’s watch collection, including all Grand Complications.
This home for such passionates is known simply as “The Salons”, a Homage to Horologery that perfectly reflects Patek Philippe’s brand heritage: true excellence in watchmaking, combining the great traditions of horology with state-of-the-art technologies and innovation.
Acquired by Patek Phillippe in 1891. The building was totally renovated by acclaimed architect, Jacques-Elisée Goss (1839-1921).
In 1907-1908, a fifth floor was added - a project undertaken by Henri Goss, son of the original architect.
The last main renovation of the historic building was finalised in 1996 with the stately Salon Napoleon III being carefully restored to reflect its original style.
Discover more about The Geneva Salon
In 1964 - on the Manufacture's 125th anniversary - La Jonction, a new building on rue des Pêcheries, Geneva was inaugurated. It was a solidly constructed six-storey building, as modern as the old factory was historic.
Former Patek Philippe Master watchmaker Paul Buclin looks back to 1964, and explores the way of life that the Manufacture's watchmakers experienced at the time.
1839 marked the incorporation of Patek, Czapek & Cie.
The first manufacture was located on Quai des Bergues No. 29 in Geneva, on the right bank of the river Rhône.
After Jean-Adrien Philippe succeeded Czapek, the new Patek, Philippe & Cie company relocated to Quai des Bergues No. 15.
In 1853, the company leased space in a building between Grand Quai – on the left bank of the Rhône, in front of the Port du Commerce – and rue du Rhône 168.
Discover more about our History
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