L.U.Chopard, Grand Seiko, H Moser, Breguet, JLC etc show there are many alternatives on offer. A brand stands out when staff show care even when a purchase is not made. Customer service goes a long way when done with the upmost attention.
More than 20 yrs ago I purchased my first and only PP, the 5196P. It was such a pleasant buying experience and the watch market was completely different then. ADs had every model in the catalog available for sale and spent time with you talking about horology, we enthusiasts read watch magazines in print with informative thoughtful reviews and articles. The modern age with discussions and information have been enjoyable from an enthusiast point of view as well, but the watch purchasing experience has gone the other way with important brands, we and they know who they are. BTW, on the day of that PP purchase I also took home a Submariner no date with a 40% disc. from the same AD. Those were the days, but now we have so much watch content. Great video John!
The holy trinity has become the holy singular with VC being the only watchmaker focused on making watches for customers, not instagrammers and athletes.
Wish I could like this comment 10x - exactly what’s going on. Sad. PP and AP and R are more interested in headlines about what celebrity was wearing their watch.
I was very close to buying a Patek Calatrava, but couldn’t get over the fact how plain and boring the watch was for that price point. Ended up buying a Moser and VC 1921.
My AD, the only one selling Patek, told me there are “none in stock” and there is a waiting list. Hopefully I can get one on the grey market for at or below retail next year.
There was a time that I wanted a Patek but couldn't afford it and now that I can - I have the same turn-offs for the reasons you mentioned: they are no longer about elegance and being discreet but are more focused on exclusivity and self-aggrandizement. For my next luxury piece, I am drawn to Vachron, H Moser or Parmigiani Fleurier who seem to appreciate my business and have real identities that matter to me.
The watch with the old man’s face made me do a double take. I first thought it was Vladimir Lenin’s profile on the dial! The watch is hideous. I could see it going direct to the grey market!
Moser and Parmigiani are both fantastic brands. Moser is building its reputation one watch at a time and the launch for their new HMC500 micro rotor embedded within their Streamliner is a testament to that and looking forward to adding one or my collection of Mosers. Parmigiani makes incredible time pieces with well engineered movement a to go along with it. I prefer their prior generation design ethos compared with their redesigned Tondas as they have shifted their strategy to go after a more commercially accepting market - and of course they are doing it out of need to grow their business and remain economically viable. I do hope they start to bring back some of their distinctive design attributes such as the drop done lugs which really set them apart. As far as Patek goes, they have a large product portfolio. While I do not believe their overall business should be focused on a few products that may or may not appeal to our personal emotions, like many I feel they can do a better job differentiating the product portfolio. Specifically, I personally see Patek Philippe as two distinct businesses. One is Patek Philippe, the purveyor of grand complications, innovative watches with distinction and my own definition of class. Then there is “Patek”, the watch company focused on sport watches and other trend oriented watches such as the newly released aquanauts and Nautilus’s. The thing is watch collecting is for anyone interested in the hobby, it’s a large market of enthusiasts, I see no reason Patek can not appeal to all of them.
John, you are right about the Patek buying experience is just as worse as buying a Rolex. There is only one Patek AD in the DC Area, and they have nothing for sale. At first, I gave them the benefit of the doubt because Patek only makes 60,000 watches per year and they are hand made. Then the AD told me I have to make an appointment to “see” the Patek models, and be interviewed to see if I am worthy! I just wanted to buy the new Calatrava entry level watch. One thing that works in our favor that I have noticed with Patek, some of the complication models are selling BELOW retail on the grey market! Nothing Patek can do about it, so we collectors just need to be patient.
'Just as worse' is grammatically incorrect 😱 If that's how you speak in a Rolex/PP AD you really need to go back to skool before trying to progress above Casio 🥴
I think your commentary is spot on! When the 5711 was discontinued, PP came and out said they wanted to be known for their other pieces. But the fact that they released a green dial, then the Tiffany dial and now the white gold nautilus, it makes that message very disingenuous and it definitely makes the discontinuation more about hype and exclusivity. I don't think there's any doubt Patek makes amazing watches, but you're right the moves towards hype and more crass and vulgar side of watches leave a bad taste in your mouth.
I agree the OnlyWatch dial is “Tone Deaf”. Would I dump an entire collection because of it? Every company makes mistakes. In terms of the rainbow Aquanauts or precious stone Nautilus, not my thing either; but Patek has a huge catalog of watches. Just skip those. Patek is still a master of perpetual calendars, is the king of incredible minute repeaters, they spend huge on research and development leading to real innovation, and they do not succumb to outside investor pressure. So some of their pieces are funky and flamboyant, that’s where the market demand is. You’re suggesting they are changing their entire focus just because of a few watches. Your painting too broad a paint brush. I respect your videos, but this one really seems like click bait to me rather than the thoughtful commentary I have come to expect. In otherwords, you essentially responding to what you think your viewers want. Not to dissimilar to Patek trying to meet the needs of their clients, right?
@@michaelkalb2896I get your point but I also think a watch and the brand says something about you and I can understand someone saying “this brand no longer is what I want to represent”. The most obvious example is Rolex for many of us. The Explorer and Submariner didn’t become bad watches to me, but many of us who saw a watch as being an expression of ourselves were no longer feeling that was the case with modern Rolex, amidst all the bling and hype. What was a solid, robust and reliable high quality steel watch a decade or two ago, now feels like a luxury status symbol. PP went from being the epitome of haute horology- the name that was generally considered to be the best- to one of many gaudy hype beasts. I still love several of models and would love to own an older annual calendar (I’ve never liked their “sports” models) but I’d be more inclined to go for a JLC or ALS now.
@@manuel_winde I completely agree that a watch brand, heritage, history should have a significant influence on any collector!! I would not suggest otherwise. And this is why, and I think I might of suggested this in another reply, I view Patek Philippe as two separate brands; worthy of retaining my respect because I view them distinctly. First, as you articulated, there is the “hype” side of the equation; which for me includes the Nautilus and Aquanaut collections. While there are some incredible complications within each, the “hype” is a significant part of the watch market. Distinctive in design, complications, and detail, is what I would call the Patek Philippe side of the business. This includes their Grand Complications, Complications, Eclipse and Calatrava collections. Typically the “Patek Philippe” models, as I have designated them have more detail, hand craftsmanship (not in every case of course), in house innovations and reflective of the Patek spirit you and I have come to expect and love. Patek Philippe, as a company, has an extremely large number of very distinctive models with distinctive design attributes, distinctive complications, a broad price range and very distinctive end markets it sells into. Rolex and AP are essentially one collection watch brands (I am generalizing so bear with me for a moment). Yes Rolex has numerous products within its portfolio - Day Date, DateJust, Submariner, Daytona, etc; however each collection maintains an overriding design ethos consistent with one another. Rolex competes on its luxury brand perception based on its look rather than on product sophistication, complication and the likes. AP is the Royal oak, albeit they are trying do expand with their Code 11.59 collection (rocky start but now seem to be making strides). AP seems a little lost in the woods at the moment. They produce great watches with exceptional quality, but until they find their footing I hold off. Like you, I do not collect Rolex any more. The Brand does not resonate. For Patek, I can understand someone saying they do not like a particular collection. But I do believe making a sweeping generalization of a the brand simply because of distaste for a particular watch or collection amongst their expansive product offering is a bit glib; particularly when it is coming from someone that people respect as an industry expert and whom projects themselves as an industry resource. As an industry expert, it is important to be able to see the entire picture. So rather than sensationalizing some questionable product launches, instead wouldn’t it be better to engage in a thoughtful discussion which weighs the good against the bad. Final point, do I feel Patek is making a bad call launching a fully encrusted aquanaut with a minute repeater? Yes, I find it hard to take seriously. Will someone buy it? I am sure they would. Would that stop me from securing my own minute repeater included in a more classic Patek collection? It certainly would not!! Thanks for your thoughtful reply to my reply. This is what I love about watch collectors, they know how to have a discussion!!!
The watch with the founder's face on it almost feels like an inside joke between the people at Patek to see how far they can push the envelope based on their hype. The brand used to be about understated elegance, and now it feels like they're morphing into AP 2.0.
This was my reaction too! “Is this for real”? I thought it was an April fools joke. As I tried to put myself in Patek’s shoes I realized something which is pretty obvious: Patek is a global business. Tastes and values differ by country. What I perceive in North America is not the same perception in South America. Europe, Asia, nor the Middle East. The definition of elegance in one region is not the same in another. And as a global business Patek needs to think about local tastes. Someone, somewhere, will think this is elegant.
I agree with you completely. Putting old Philippe Stern’s face on the dial of a watch is ridiculous. Philippe wore a 3940 in yellow gold for many years because he felt that it stood for the brand of Patek Philippe. Understated, elegant and the highest statement of quality. The company is now run by a child named Thierry. It’s sad.
My favorite pateks in the current catalogue (5230p world time, 5172g chrono, 5212a calatrava) sell for under retail so I never realistically will have to deal with their dealers. I grew up on the internet though, so having a “relationship” with a store always struck me as odd.
Things are simple: one has to be either immensely rich or out of their mind (or both)) to buy a stainless steel sport watch (Aquanaut and Nautilus) for 100k.
I like this conversation. I have been wearing Rolex and Blancpain for many years and still like them. But I now like to wear Tudor and Swatch almost every day. I like Tudor and Swatch watches more than the very expensive watches.
My experience of buying my Rolex Sub can be described as a psychological torture. As a result, I just can't be asked to even think about buying any watch of any brand that will put me in a mythical "waiting list" I recently tried on a smart watch with full Titanium case and bracelet, very well made, very comfortable to wear and very practical, also it costs less than half the price of an entry level Swiss made mechanical watch! Certain brands should be worried!!!
That’s called they were trying to get you trauma bonded 😂 Pretty sick and twisted to want to torture the customer then then develop “Stockholm syndrome”
plus as a minor rant, us watch enthusiasts have gotten tired of the BS from Rolex (I know, off topic) and Patek, where they have basically turned their boutiques into exhibition centers where if you are not famous of buying 10 datejusts (for example) you are never getting your hands on a stainless steel sports model. Come on, it is ridiculous that they have "waiting lists" (a polite way of saying get out of our store) for Rolex OPs. That's why brands that are much more customer friendly such as Omega are booming.
I'd consider myself a collector, I buy watches and never sell them. I have 20 or so watches, 10 are good watches (4 Rolex, 1 Patek Phillippe, 1 H Moser, 1 Cartier, Grand Seiko, Omega etc. In the past 3 years I've became uncomfortable even visiting a Rolex or Patek AD because I feel like a bother. They have no watches to look at or try on and they say they don't even know what's coming in or when. They never ask my name or even try to get information to contact me when they get product in. It's really weird and I feel they don't care about me as a customer. I'm actually not going back to them, I've been alienated.
Prof Bill Sanders dismisses them since they no longer have the Geneva seal and mark their own homework.Would not buy one as much better independents for the money.
Patek has to be the most over hyped watch brand in the world. That the company requires is potential customers to grovel and jump thru hoops just to get the sacred opportunity to buy one of their unbelievably over priced watches smacks of arrogance and hubris. Of course is has worked because nothing gets the very new and very rich worked up into a frothy lather of uncontrolled desire as being told the word NO! No, your piles of petroleum cash is not enough to buy this steel watch. You are going to have to get down on your knees and beg for the opportunity! And then wait a good long while until we Patek decide that you may or may no be worthy enough to purchase one. Treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen!
As a guy who buys Pateks from the AD, I mostly agree with you. I will say, however, that the arrogance of the boutiques is not necessarily a top-down mentality. The boutique I deal with or at least my sales lady who I've been dealing with for the last few years is extremely pleasant and humble. But I have walked into another Patek Philippe boutique wearing a 5270/1R that I paid full retail for, and they basically paid no attention to me. Whereas a VC boutique will be more pleasant but it may also be because they are not selling as much. They need your business, but Patek doesn't necessarily. That being said, attitude can backfire, and they need to stay humble no matter how good sales are. As far as the iced out watches... I hate them!
I like PP and VC. I disagree w the notion that VC caters to customers while PP doesn’t. Imagine entering in a VC boutique in early 2022 at the height of the bubble. They were as “uninviting” as the next overhyped brand. Overall, brands need to better guide their personnel to deal with customers in different market environments. And agree that no brand should ignore potential customers. All in all, PP is no better or worse than other big brands, except for the fact that their track record is one that focuses on their brand equity and heritage. Cheers.
It's true that modern Patek under Thierry Stern is not the same but real Patek enthusiast stays loyal, enjoys collecting neo-vintage etc. This particular piece is not my favorite but it wasn't made for me and you, non of us can afford it anyway. When it comes to boutique experiences Patek was always classy and inviting, on the other hand VC in Miami would not even bother to let me in. Thierry once said: Patek is not for everyone! Cheers John, great episode.
Yeah I agree the new watches are super cringe. Plus, they’ve always been terrible with respect to new customers. I’m not a Nautilus or Aquanaut fan personally. That said, I do still like the calatrava (6119G) and the Pilot Travel time (7234G). Yes they’re not “popular” but they look so good. Best thing is that they sell for under retail! So if Patek doesn’t wanna sell me a watch, that’s fine. I’ll buy from wherever else (Delray, watchfinder, subdial etc)
The only Patek I like is the 5980 Rose gold with the silver subdial. Nothing else from the catalog makes me want to buy them. AND agree with you on VC’s quality of product and service, they are the BEST and I want to buy many many of their watches!
No, you’re 💯 right. I hadn’t seen those new releases - they are laughable. And yes, one’s doesn’t have to be too cynical to think that the msg to their existing customers is ‘buy one of these to stay in our good graces and get to buy another std Nautilus.’ Sad.
Agree with comment about VC in Miami. They were very rude and not inviting. Patek boutique was very inviting and pleasant. Patek is for people who appreciate workmanship and beauty. There are many pieces that are not blingy.
Patek doesn’t make sports watches, they make “sports” inspired dress watches so having these gem set models makes sense. If you want a sports watch, Patek isn’t the brand. These watches have been available for decades, they were available easily back in the day so the surge in demand today is just 90% “I want to fit in”.
The watch industry mirrors society. Thus it gets uglier. Never buy new. Buy only what has already aged well. Does it get better than a 1803 Day Date, a 3919 Calatrava, a Cal 89 IWC or a 60's Sub, etc. It doesn't in my opinion. And your investment will be much safer.
John P always keeping it real 💪🏼. Patek to watches was the same as Rolls Royce to cars. Patek has lost their way. Rolls knows their market. They’d never produce a bling bling automobile.
Bill Sanders had a video on Patek’s generations advertising, and its disconnect between that and it’s clients (ballers, rappers, and other assorted types with a need to bling very loudly). Patek did market research with ballers and rappers, and discovered their tastes (or lack thereof).
Patek is just doing the same as Rolex, Hermes, Ferrari, etc. Feeding the hype at the expense of pissing off some loyal customers. Is it worth it? Probably, yes. That's why they do it. But I think there are long-term downsides to all the anger they are stirring up. We'll have to wait & see.
Unfortunately with some of the high end brands we've seen way too much snobbery going on lately. However, on one hand if as a brand you pride yourself in being the epitome of class then turn around and your watch is in every rap video it would be time to regroup. On the other hand any marketing is good marketing and just be happy you're selling in a down economy. Really what it boils down to is Patek is giving us a strict reminder that their brand is for CEOs not regular people who celebrate life achievements or collect as a hobby, which is very sad. However, in revolt true collectors need to seek out smaller brands that can give the same craftsmanship while maintaining high quality customer relationships. Make brands like Patek and Rolex get back to treating customers like people.
I think Rolex, Patek an all others should have plenty of stock and sell them at there current list, that would stop flippers and show honor to there customers. If the retail suggested is 15K USD than sell it at that. No games, no gimmicks, no BS.
That’s what I was thinking - creepier not narcissistic. But I don’t care. I don’t think any PPS are remotely sporty. John was even too nice to those new Calatravas. I’ll take any of my Tudors over those - and keep $32k.
Totally agree with you. Sad to say the watch world now are all about bling and creating hype. Been collecting watches for the past 15 yrs and the good old days are long gone.
Patek is not within my reach although I could buy one or two if selling my collection. But they don't do it for me. I'm in 1960s sports pieces - Omega, Rolex, Heuer, UG...
Very astute commentary and I can't wait for your take on where the brand is going with their new squared Nautilus. At this point I wonder what Thierry Stern has brought to the company heritage really.
So there is two merchants of gratification. One for the approval seeker who expects to be treated bad and the other is for the one who needs to be pampered and treated nice. Your choice
I completely understand the current frustrations surrounding Patek Philippe. It's important, however, to consider the brand's entire history and legacy, not just recent events. The last few years have seen a surge in pretentiousness across many luxury brands, a trend partly influenced by the influx of 'crypto bros' and their spending habits. As the market begins to stabilize, I believe we'll see a shift. The cooling hype is likely to prompt brands, including Patek Philippe, to reassess their strategies and return to a more competitive stance, focusing on sales and genuine value in their collections. My advice? Buy what truly resonates with you, Pateks included. It's crucial not to let short-term market fluctuations overly influence your passion for timeless pieces. After all, the true value of a luxury watch transcends temporary market trends.
I am a collector and have quite a few. There is something about Patek that’s just unparalleled. Love it to death. Have decided to only and only buy Pateks in future. Sorry for you that you sold your Pateks 😅
Thanks for the video: Sad state of affairs, pandering to the vanity of the “masses” instead of staying true to their values. Well, opens a gap for VC, ALS, GP (Not to mention independents like Moser, Laurent Ferrier etc.). Will ultimately fail when the fashion has passed and the world takes retrospection of its absurdity (Which is starting to happen, given the state of the world). And for their business, this will be a short-term gain, long term loss. Cudo’s on you for exiting them JP
While I could care less about the brand I just saw a crazy accurate super clone of the aquanaut and it was scary to see. Even the movement is replicated to the point you would have to be an expert to tell the difference. The artificial scarcity Patek has created has opened a new market for people who don’t care and are giving them the finger. While watches are great people should avoid spending obscene amounts of money on them. It’s just not worth it.
I think you are wrong with the chic comment. Not too long ago I went to a Blancpain boutique and had a long conversation with what I presume was the manager there. He basically told me that in order to sell watches they need to be on trend and 9 out of 10 people who come in and buy a watch ask for advice on which colors and collections are going to be in style. I was as surprised as you are but I don't think he was lying... enthusiasts are just not that big of a market and usually much less impulsive with their buying I would like to think.
Patek are not the only one doing this. Even people like JLC massively increasing their prices are taking advantage of people who actually care about the quality on their wrist! They're losing actually customers, not just people who do it for show!
Everything in society has become so hyped that people will roll over and play fetch at the chance to spend a lot of money for a product. If you don’t play the game you can’t get played. Plenty of amazing pieces that can be purchased with your dignity still intact.
To digress, how many people can afford these gemset pateks? Most of us can’t. Their entry pateks are still classic and timeless imo. Think that their target audience for this round of release is totally different. Probably flexing their muscles too.
Why even bother? PP is not an enthusiast brand. 99 percent of their buyers are ultra rich people who don’t care about horology. They just want a PP membership card.
In my humble opinion, the path they have chosen is a sign of the times we're going trough. I mean, the not so slow vanishing of the middle class, as a social indicator not in absolute numbers, means that poor are becoming poorer and on the other side rich are getting richer. Cutting the "low end" lines probably has not so much effect on their business, at least not that much as we as watch enthusiasts could think. The iced out models you showed us are for a certain client, not only pop stars that come and go, but ultra rich people that buy them because they can, not necessarily because they want to be spotted with a rainbow Nautilus on the wrist. The market is heading towards this kind of wealth, leaving the hard working mules behind.
While I respect your opinion I feel it's a bit harsh. There isn't ONE watch company in the world that I love every watch they make. You show a few examples to illustrate your point and I don't like those watches either. However what I do to get around that is simply buy the models I LIKE leaving the models I don't like for someone else to buy. I may not like what the company is doing but I will NEVER stop loving my Calatrava because of what the company is doing
The balance between style, opulence & grotesque 😂 it’s like a repeat of the 80s / 90s /00s In 12 months the interest will be gone and they will start to come back to us the collectors and enthusiasts and my gut tells me they won’t be well received. I’m done with Rolex, PP, AP I’m all in in Moser, VC, Panerai and believe it or not as my daily …I sold my sub at a profit after 7 years of ownership and with the margin I made have a Sinn U50. It makes me realise that in the quartz crisis the brands probably behaved like brats, the big boys are again going down the same road.
Steel is a rarity for Patek. So it's common for Patek to not use steel. While I myself am not into "bling" personally, one must take into account that pateks are built extremely well. As for the boutique, I have had only great experiences with them. The truth is most watches really aren't on sale as they are mostly pre allocated on the waitlist. Yes that is real for some boutiques. However, the issue with this practice is some boutiques allow anyone to touch the watches in that one month. So I have taken order on watches that have been clearly scratched by someone's ring... from that point i have clearly voiced my concern and the boutiques have placed more clear wraps. But customers need to be considerate when they touch these watches also...
disagree that you can get similar new watches at 10k compared to a gold calatrava, mosers are clearly a tier below patek in finishing, are in steel and has no hand anglage etc. Most other brands under richemont like lange and jlc have significantly jacked up their prices especially in their entry level pieces, a saxonia thin costs 27k new now.
Well, I did had an experience with VC and they are excellent in welcoming costumer independently from where they come from. Cartier also demonstrate a very solid welcoming culture. Rolex otherwise set the value in the past, not in the present.
Patek, unlike Rolex, was never about the sports models. Their model line has always evolved as well, unlike Rolex. I would have loved it if they kept making the 5170, the 5110 and the 5196, but that's just not the way they do it. They wipe the sheets clean and make something else. So to expect them to be okay with being branded a luxury steel sports watch brand is not realistic.With regards to their buying experience, The staff at AD's have clearly been a bit frustrated with the lack of even dress watches of late, it's not normal for Patek,. But I have never experienced the kind of rudeness I have at Rolex AD's.
Gold and stones in watches are far higher than in any other place. However, they don't inproove watches Quality!! The former tool watches are now snobery items. 🤔
Perhaps Patek don’t want to sell their limited 65,000 output to flippers and dealers and restrict sales to known Patek collectors. Frustrating for sure if you want one and bit Catch 22! LOL.
I think among all luxury brands there will be good ADs and bad ADs that will enhance or sour one’s taste for the pieces. The way one is treated is all based on demand. The higher the demand for a brand, the higher the entitlement is among sellers of said brand (because they can assert more power). I think all of the holy trinity brands are awesome…it’s the demand that really drives how one is treated at the boutique. Personally, I work with just two ADs and both have been fantastic. Yes, I’ve had to wait a while for pieces and develop a spend history, but I’m fine with it because I love the pieces I get and I’m treated great. Again, the way a boutique deals with demand for a brand determines customers’ perceptions of that brand. Just my two cents. I don’t want to disregard what anyone has experienced (all experiences are valid) and I hope the best for everyone in their collecting journeys :)
I respect Vacheron Constantin. I don't like AP watches and sincerely with the exception of some past watches from Patek Philippe I'm not their fan either. I consider more the horlogerie feats of JLC to whom unfortunately lacks design for their last pieces. So from the holy trinity, VC, PF and AP I much prefer the teutonic feeling of A Lange & Söhne.
Makes sense but I think there’s more to this. Enzo Ferrari famously said Ferrari would produce “one less car than the market demand.” Creating scarcity is part of the game. Within reason scarcity is good for collectors as it safeguards value. Now the larger issue is the influx of uneducated consumers who care about prestige and flamboyance more than horological significance and mechanical artistry. I do agree that they’ve lost their way in kowtowing to the hoard. The issue is that the hoard’s interests will wane. When the bloom falls off the bush, it’s likely that many of the core case will have discovered loyalty with a worthy competitor. This is the beauty of the free market. Patek’s strategic fumbling will ultimately create opportunity for competitors who understand their core customer.
The brand doesn't make a sale person worth millions overnite. They can float themselves if they think they own the world. I wouldnt spend onany watch brands for showing negative attitude (sale person) & not stating true to itself.
not all of the new releases are good looking. but at least the company is trying to modernize its designs. they dont want to become a dependent on one model like the Royal oak with AP. and they dont want to be known as an old man watch. new color dials, textured dials, straps, and cases. the only thing it feels like they dont want to release is steel models. i think they will get to the right destination. but it will take a few attempts.
He’s missing the point a bit that PP only makes c.60-80k watches a year and not 1.2M like the top brand.. If you want to keep the volume low, exclusivity high you can escalate the price for those with the money. Otherwise you just become Me2.
Selling a patek that you own and like because you don’t like a new iteration of watches is clinically insane. I keep hearing AP people say the same as well. Watches aren’t voting chits. You can dislike the current rolex range but still own a 14060. They’re not mutually exclusive.
Whilst the face of PS isnt necessary when you own the company you can occasionally be self indulgent I guess and its for VIPs/collectors not the average joe.
Some may label it merely a club, but from my perspective, it borders on a sect. Membership requires acceptance, involves overpaying for watches, and entails seeing pictures of, and listening to, accolades about their family's greatness.
Patek is selling to actual rich people, not merely well off people who appreciate horology. That's why the emphasis on gem sets. If you want a Patek, get a pre owned one. My used watch dealer has PPs for about 8K. Better yet, get a VC, Moser or Parm.
@@JohnPWatches😂😂😂 I would be actually too shy to show them the result. But I do agree with you: the ones with gems are so "unpatek" and the one with the former president face on it is so "North Korean" it's almost ridiculous
That’s why I have a Blancpain in yellow gold. No waiting list, no super hype , no vanity but amazing beauty and quality instead!
Thanks for the video
Agreed. Really nothing special about the hard to get Royal Oak, Nautilus or Rolex. Just hype and marketing.
Rolex sells their bracelets not their watches. The rest of the world has not figured out how to connect a bracelet to a watch case. 🤷♂️ just saying.
L.U.Chopard, Grand Seiko, H Moser, Breguet, JLC etc show there are many alternatives on offer. A brand stands out when staff show care even when a purchase is not made. Customer service goes a long way when done with the upmost attention.
Agreed
More than 20 yrs ago I purchased my first and only PP, the 5196P. It was such a pleasant buying experience and the watch market was completely different then. ADs had every model in the catalog available for sale and spent time with you talking about horology, we enthusiasts read watch magazines in print with informative thoughtful reviews and articles. The modern age with discussions and information have been enjoyable from an enthusiast point of view as well, but the watch purchasing experience has gone the other way with important brands, we and they know who they are. BTW, on the day of that PP purchase I also took home a Submariner no date with a 40% disc. from the same AD. Those were the days, but now we have so much watch content. Great video John!
Happy for you! Congratulations! A very nice 2 piece collection.
The holy trinity has become the holy singular with VC being the only watchmaker focused on making watches for customers, not instagrammers and athletes.
Agreed 😂
💯
Holy Singularity? Hmm...
lol, they are owned by Richemont. Richemont is interested in quarterly earnings first and foremost.
Wish I could like this comment 10x - exactly what’s going on. Sad. PP and AP and R are more interested in headlines about what celebrity was wearing their watch.
I was very close to buying a Patek Calatrava, but couldn’t get over the fact how plain and boring the watch was for that price point. Ended up buying a Moser and VC 1921.
Precisely.
I have the Calatrava. It’s a great watch but I have to say any Moser and VC 1921 are a stunning watch.
My AD, the only one selling Patek, told me there are “none in stock” and there is a waiting list. Hopefully I can get one on the grey market for at or below retail next year.
Awesome job! 👍
Less is more my friend. That it's plain is the whole point.
There was a time that I wanted a Patek but couldn't afford it and now that I can - I have the same turn-offs for the reasons you mentioned: they are no longer about elegance and being discreet but are more focused on exclusivity and self-aggrandizement. For my next luxury piece, I am drawn to Vachron, H Moser or Parmigiani Fleurier who seem to appreciate my business and have real identities that matter to me.
Agreed!
I have had the same experience with Patek, and discovered other brands that want my business like you found.
The watch with the old man’s face made me do a double take. I first thought it was Vladimir Lenin’s profile on the dial! The watch is hideous. I could see it going direct to the grey market!
Totally agree with you. PF or VC anytime of the day.
Moser and Parmigiani are both fantastic brands. Moser is building its reputation one watch at a time and the launch for their new HMC500 micro rotor embedded within their Streamliner is a testament to that and looking forward to adding one or my collection of Mosers. Parmigiani makes incredible time pieces with well engineered movement a to go along with it. I prefer their prior generation design ethos compared with their redesigned Tondas as they have shifted their strategy to go after a more commercially accepting market - and of course they are doing it out of need to grow their business and remain economically viable. I do hope they start to bring back some of their distinctive design attributes such as the drop done lugs which really set them apart. As far as Patek goes, they have a large product portfolio. While I do not believe their overall business should be focused on a few products that may or may not appeal to our personal emotions, like many I feel they can do a better job differentiating the product portfolio. Specifically, I personally see Patek Philippe as two distinct businesses. One is Patek Philippe, the purveyor of grand complications, innovative watches with distinction and my own definition of class. Then there is “Patek”, the watch company focused on sport watches and other trend oriented watches such as the newly released aquanauts and Nautilus’s. The thing is watch collecting is for anyone interested in the hobby, it’s a large market of enthusiasts, I see no reason Patek can not appeal to all of them.
I would add Lange to the list of brands still focused on the collector community instead of chasing HYPE!
John, you are right about the Patek buying experience is just as worse as buying a Rolex. There is only one Patek AD in the DC Area, and they have nothing for sale. At first, I gave them the benefit of the doubt because Patek only makes 60,000 watches per year and they are hand made. Then the AD told me I have to make an appointment to “see” the Patek models, and be interviewed to see if I am worthy! I just wanted to buy the new Calatrava entry level watch. One thing that works in our favor that I have noticed with Patek, some of the complication models are selling BELOW retail on the grey market! Nothing Patek can do about it, so we collectors just need to be patient.
'Just as worse' is grammatically incorrect 😱
If that's how you speak in a Rolex/PP AD you really need to go back to skool before trying to progress above Casio 🥴
@@wristopia4101 I didn't know you need perfect English grammar to buy a watch in a store.
@@flx2525 Everyday is a Skoolday ; )
@@wristopia4101....what is SKOOL ??
I think your commentary is spot on! When the 5711 was discontinued, PP came and out said they wanted to be known for their other pieces. But the fact that they released a green dial, then the Tiffany dial and now the white gold nautilus, it makes that message very disingenuous and it definitely makes the discontinuation more about hype and exclusivity. I don't think there's any doubt Patek makes amazing watches, but you're right the moves towards hype and more crass and vulgar side of watches leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Yes!
I agree the OnlyWatch dial is “Tone Deaf”. Would I dump an entire collection because of it? Every company makes mistakes. In terms of the rainbow Aquanauts or precious stone Nautilus, not my thing either; but Patek has a huge catalog of watches. Just skip those. Patek is still a master of perpetual calendars, is the king of incredible minute repeaters, they spend huge on research and development leading to real innovation, and they do not succumb to outside investor pressure. So some of their pieces are funky and flamboyant, that’s where the market demand is. You’re suggesting they are changing their entire focus just because of a few watches. Your painting too broad a paint brush. I respect your videos, but this one really seems like click bait to me rather than the thoughtful commentary I have come to expect. In otherwords, you essentially responding to what you think your viewers want. Not to dissimilar to Patek trying to meet the needs of their clients, right?
@@michaelkalb2896I get your point but I also think a watch and the brand says something about you and I can understand someone saying “this brand no longer is what I want to represent”.
The most obvious example is Rolex for many of us. The Explorer and Submariner didn’t become bad watches to
me, but many of us who saw a watch as being an expression of ourselves were no longer feeling that was the case with modern Rolex, amidst all the bling and hype. What was a solid, robust and reliable high quality steel watch a decade or two ago, now feels like a luxury status symbol.
PP went from being the epitome of haute horology- the name that was generally considered to be the best- to one of many gaudy hype beasts. I still love several of models and would love to own an older annual calendar (I’ve never liked their “sports” models) but I’d be more inclined to go for a JLC or ALS now.
@@manuel_winde I completely agree that a watch brand, heritage, history should have a significant influence on any collector!! I would not suggest otherwise. And this is why, and I think I might of suggested this in another reply, I view Patek Philippe as two separate brands; worthy of retaining my respect because I view them distinctly. First, as you articulated, there is the “hype” side of the equation; which for me includes the Nautilus and Aquanaut collections. While there are some incredible complications within each, the “hype” is a significant part of the watch market. Distinctive in design, complications, and detail, is what I would call the Patek Philippe side of the business. This includes their Grand Complications, Complications, Eclipse and Calatrava collections. Typically the “Patek Philippe” models, as I have designated them have more detail, hand craftsmanship (not in every case of course), in house innovations and reflective of the Patek spirit you and I have come to expect and love. Patek Philippe, as a company, has an extremely large number of very distinctive models with distinctive design attributes, distinctive complications, a broad price range and very distinctive end markets it sells into. Rolex and AP are essentially one collection watch brands (I am generalizing so bear with me for a moment). Yes Rolex has numerous products within its portfolio - Day Date, DateJust, Submariner, Daytona, etc; however each collection maintains an overriding design ethos consistent with one another. Rolex competes on its luxury brand perception based on its look rather than on product sophistication, complication and the likes. AP is the Royal oak, albeit they are trying do expand with their Code 11.59 collection (rocky start but now seem to be making strides). AP seems a little lost in the woods at the moment. They produce great watches with exceptional quality, but until they find their footing I hold off. Like you, I do not collect Rolex any more. The Brand does not resonate. For Patek, I can understand someone saying they do not like a particular collection. But I do believe making a sweeping generalization of a the brand simply because of distaste for a particular watch or collection amongst their expansive product offering is a bit glib; particularly when it is coming from someone that people respect as an industry expert and whom projects themselves as an industry resource. As an industry expert, it is important to be able to see the entire picture. So rather than sensationalizing some questionable product launches, instead wouldn’t it be better to engage in a thoughtful discussion which weighs the good against the bad. Final point, do I feel Patek is making a bad call launching a fully encrusted aquanaut with a minute repeater? Yes, I find it hard to take seriously. Will someone buy it? I am sure they would. Would that stop me from securing my own minute repeater included in a more classic Patek collection? It certainly would not!! Thanks for your thoughtful reply to my reply. This is what I love about watch collectors, they know how to have a discussion!!!
@@michaelkalb2896bro, you should start a blog or youtube channel. Really solid points. Thank you for this take. Learned a lot.
The watch with the founder's face on it almost feels like an inside joke between the people at Patek to see how far they can push the envelope based on their hype. The brand used to be about understated elegance, and now it feels like they're morphing into AP 2.0.
This was my reaction too! “Is this for real”? I thought it was an April fools joke. As I tried to put myself in Patek’s shoes I realized something which is pretty obvious: Patek is a global business. Tastes and values differ by country. What I perceive in North America is not the same perception in South America. Europe, Asia, nor the Middle East. The definition of elegance in one region is not the same in another. And as a global business Patek needs to think about local tastes. Someone, somewhere, will think this is elegant.
I agree with you completely. Putting old Philippe Stern’s face on the dial of a watch is ridiculous. Philippe wore a 3940 in yellow gold for many years because he felt that it stood for the brand of Patek Philippe. Understated, elegant and the highest statement of quality. The company is now run by a child named Thierry. It’s sad.
My favorite pateks in the current catalogue (5230p world time, 5172g chrono, 5212a calatrava) sell for under retail so I never realistically will have to deal with their dealers. I grew up on the internet though, so having a “relationship” with a store always struck me as odd.
My only PP is a 5172G salmon dial it is very special and I put on a blue band on it. It is spectacular.
Things are simple: one has to be either immensely rich or out of their mind (or both)) to buy a stainless steel sport watch (Aquanaut and Nautilus) for 100k.
They are both giving money to a radically overpriced item.
As would be said of the slave salt miner looking at you wondering why you have anything other then a used Toyota 😂
I own PP 5726 and AP royal oak offshore and a vacheron overseas blue dil and let me tell you the vacheron its something special love it more
I like this conversation. I have been wearing Rolex and Blancpain for many years and still like them. But I now like to wear Tudor and Swatch almost every day. I like Tudor and Swatch watches more than the very expensive watches.
I find myselve wearing a tissot sideral all the time, i do have rolex but like the tissot as it looks funky its light its a very comfortable watch
My experience of buying my Rolex Sub can be described as a psychological torture. As a result, I just can't be asked to even think about buying any watch of any brand that will put me in a mythical "waiting list"
I recently tried on a smart watch with full Titanium case and bracelet, very well made, very comfortable to wear and very practical, also it costs less than half the price of an entry level Swiss made mechanical watch! Certain brands should be worried!!!
Yes!
Not sure which smart watch brand (maybe Apple), but Citizen now has a nice looking line of smart watches for sale.
Have you considered a Pelagos 39? If you want the Sub no date it’s a great alternative. Yes, probably a wait - but months not yrs or never.
@@WestCoastAce27 I have got my Sub no date😁 Won't buy another Tudor untill METAS for all its models
That’s called they were trying to get you trauma bonded 😂
Pretty sick and twisted to want to torture the customer then then develop “Stockholm syndrome”
plus as a minor rant, us watch enthusiasts have gotten tired of the BS from Rolex (I know, off topic) and Patek, where they have basically turned their boutiques into exhibition centers where if you are not famous of buying 10 datejusts (for example) you are never getting your hands on a stainless steel sports model. Come on, it is ridiculous that they have "waiting lists" (a polite way of saying get out of our store) for Rolex OPs. That's why brands that are much more customer friendly such as Omega are booming.
Omega is just better than Rolex in every way
I'd consider myself a collector, I buy watches and never sell them. I have 20 or so watches, 10 are good watches (4 Rolex, 1 Patek Phillippe, 1 H Moser, 1 Cartier, Grand Seiko, Omega etc. In the past 3 years I've became uncomfortable even visiting a Rolex or Patek AD because I feel like a bother. They have no watches to look at or try on and they say they don't even know what's coming in or when. They never ask my name or even try to get information to contact me when they get product in. It's really weird and I feel they don't care about me as a customer. I'm actually not going back to them, I've been alienated.
Prof Bill Sanders dismisses them since they no longer have the Geneva seal and mark their own homework.Would not buy one as much better independents for the money.
Patek has to be the most over hyped watch brand in the world. That the company requires is potential customers to grovel and jump thru hoops just to get the sacred opportunity to buy one of their unbelievably over priced watches smacks of arrogance and hubris. Of course is has worked because nothing gets the very new and very rich worked up into a frothy lather of uncontrolled desire as being told the word NO! No, your piles of petroleum cash is not enough to buy this steel watch. You are going to have to get down on your knees and beg for the opportunity! And then wait a good long while until we Patek decide that you may or may no be worthy enough to purchase one. Treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen!
As a guy who buys Pateks from the AD, I mostly agree with you. I will say, however, that the arrogance of the boutiques is not necessarily a top-down mentality. The boutique I deal with or at least my sales lady who I've been dealing with for the last few years is extremely pleasant and humble. But I have walked into another Patek Philippe boutique wearing a 5270/1R that I paid full retail for, and they basically paid no attention to me. Whereas a VC boutique will be more pleasant but it may also be because they are not selling as much. They need your business, but Patek doesn't necessarily. That being said, attitude can backfire, and they need to stay humble no matter how good sales are. As far as the iced out watches... I hate them!
I like PP and VC. I disagree w the notion that VC caters to customers while PP doesn’t. Imagine entering in a VC boutique in early 2022 at the height of the bubble. They were as “uninviting” as the next overhyped brand. Overall, brands need to better guide their personnel to deal with customers in different market environments. And agree that no brand should ignore potential customers. All in all, PP is no better or worse than other big brands, except for the fact that their track record is one that focuses on their brand equity and heritage. Cheers.
Patek isn't concerned about people who consider their watch purchases carefully.
The summery of high end watch brands ^ 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
It's true that modern Patek under Thierry Stern is not the same but real Patek enthusiast stays loyal, enjoys collecting neo-vintage etc. This particular piece is not my favorite but it wasn't made for me and you, non of us can afford it anyway. When it comes to boutique experiences Patek was always classy and inviting, on the other hand VC in Miami would not even bother to let me in. Thierry once said: Patek is not for everyone! Cheers John, great episode.
Thanks!
Yeah I agree the new watches are super cringe. Plus, they’ve always been terrible with respect to new customers.
I’m not a Nautilus or Aquanaut fan personally. That said, I do still like the calatrava (6119G) and the Pilot Travel time (7234G). Yes they’re not “popular” but they look so good. Best thing is that they sell for under retail! So if Patek doesn’t wanna sell me a watch, that’s fine. I’ll buy from wherever else (Delray, watchfinder, subdial etc)
Solid opinion, makes sense. Plus, in my opinion, I'll take Lange over Patek.
You are right PP is not for you, I think you have completely missed the point of PP
The only Patek I like is the 5980 Rose gold with the silver subdial. Nothing else from the catalog makes me want to buy them. AND agree with you on VC’s quality of product and service, they are the BEST and I want to buy many many of their watches!
Great video, some watch manufacturers let things get to their head and kind of forget what got them there.
Patek is producing all of these flashy blingy colorful models because that is what the new rich want to buy...especially in the oil producing states.
No, you’re 💯 right. I hadn’t seen those new releases - they are laughable. And yes, one’s doesn’t have to be too cynical to think that the msg to their existing customers is ‘buy one of these to stay in our good graces and get to buy another std Nautilus.’ Sad.
Agree with comment about VC in Miami. They were very rude and not inviting. Patek boutique was very inviting and pleasant. Patek is for people who appreciate workmanship and beauty. There are many pieces that are not blingy.
Totally agreed! The current watch marketing with celebs makes me sick to my stomach and I’m disgusted tbh. Watch brands sold their soul to a devil.
Patek doesn’t make sports watches, they make “sports” inspired dress watches so having these gem set models makes sense. If you want a sports watch, Patek isn’t the brand. These watches have been available for decades, they were available easily back in the day so the surge in demand today is just 90% “I want to fit in”.
The watch industry mirrors society. Thus it gets uglier.
Never buy new. Buy only what has already aged well.
Does it get better than a 1803 Day Date, a 3919 Calatrava, a Cal 89 IWC or a 60's Sub, etc.
It doesn't in my opinion.
And your investment will be much safer.
John P always keeping it real 💪🏼. Patek to watches was the same as Rolls Royce to cars. Patek has lost their way. Rolls knows their market. They’d never produce a bling bling automobile.
Bill Sanders had a video on Patek’s generations advertising, and its disconnect between that and it’s clients (ballers, rappers, and other assorted types with a need to bling very loudly). Patek did market research with ballers and rappers, and discovered their tastes (or lack thereof).
Totally agree with your thoughts here. I have a Parmigiani that I love, and the quality is amazing.
Patek is just doing the same as Rolex, Hermes, Ferrari, etc. Feeding the hype at the expense of pissing off some loyal customers. Is it worth it? Probably, yes. That's why they do it. But I think there are long-term downsides to all the anger they are stirring up. We'll have to wait & see.
Kinda creepy to look at. Just saying
Modern Patek is meh, that’s for the new collectors. But there is pretty much nothing comparable in terms of vintage Patek and complications
Unfortunately with some of the high end brands we've seen way too much snobbery going on lately. However, on one hand if as a brand you pride yourself in being the epitome of class then turn around and your watch is in every rap video it would be time to regroup. On the other hand any marketing is good marketing and just be happy you're selling in a down economy. Really what it boils down to is Patek is giving us a strict reminder that their brand is for CEOs not regular people who celebrate life achievements or collect as a hobby, which is very sad. However, in revolt true collectors need to seek out smaller brands that can give the same craftsmanship while maintaining high quality customer relationships. Make brands like Patek and Rolex get back to treating customers like people.
Chic? Gross terminology on Patek’s part.
I think Rolex, Patek an all others should have plenty of stock and sell them at there current list, that would stop flippers and show honor to there customers. If the retail suggested is 15K USD than sell it at that. No games, no gimmicks, no BS.
Patek “Stern” Philippe. Grandpa Stern ghostly figure on the dial is hilarious
That’s what I was thinking - creepier not narcissistic.
But I don’t care. I don’t think any PPS are remotely sporty. John was even too nice to those new Calatravas. I’ll take any of my Tudors over those - and keep $32k.
@@WestCoastAce27 I'd do something similar
You said exactly what every real watch enthousiast is thinking, subbed 🤝
Thanks!
Totally agree with you. Sad to say the watch world now are all about bling and creating hype. Been collecting watches for the past 15 yrs and the good old days are long gone.
Patek is not within my reach although I could buy one or two if selling my collection. But they don't do it for me. I'm in 1960s sports pieces - Omega, Rolex, Heuer, UG...
Rapper / athlete watches. Period end
Opinion on the new cubitus?
Very astute commentary and I can't wait for your take on where the brand is going with their new squared Nautilus. At this point I wonder what Thierry Stern has brought to the company heritage really.
So there is two merchants of gratification. One for the approval seeker who expects to be treated bad and the other is for the one who needs to be pampered and treated nice. Your choice
I completely understand the current frustrations surrounding Patek Philippe. It's important, however, to consider the brand's entire history and legacy, not just recent events. The last few years have seen a surge in pretentiousness across many luxury brands, a trend partly influenced by the influx of 'crypto bros' and their spending habits.
As the market begins to stabilize, I believe we'll see a shift. The cooling hype is likely to prompt brands, including Patek Philippe, to reassess their strategies and return to a more competitive stance, focusing on sales and genuine value in their collections.
My advice? Buy what truly resonates with you, Pateks included. It's crucial not to let short-term market fluctuations overly influence your passion for timeless pieces. After all, the true value of a luxury watch transcends temporary market trends.
I am a collector and have quite a few. There is something about Patek that’s just unparalleled. Love it to death. Have decided to only and only buy Pateks in future. Sorry for you that you sold your Pateks 😅
He's a watch dealer. Do you really think he can't get another if he really wanted to?
It would appear you're exactly the buyer of Patek, that John is highlighting.
Thanks for the video: Sad state of affairs, pandering to the vanity of the “masses” instead of staying true to their values. Well, opens a gap for VC, ALS, GP (Not to mention independents like Moser, Laurent Ferrier etc.). Will ultimately fail when the fashion has passed and the world takes retrospection of its absurdity (Which is starting to happen, given the state of the world). And for their business, this will be a short-term gain, long term loss. Cudo’s on you for exiting them JP
While I could care less about the brand I just saw a crazy accurate super clone of the aquanaut and it was scary to see. Even the movement is replicated to the point you would have to be an expert to tell the difference. The artificial scarcity Patek has created has opened a new market for people who don’t care and are giving them the finger. While watches are great people should avoid spending obscene amounts of money on them. It’s just not worth it.
I think you are wrong with the chic comment. Not too long ago I went to a Blancpain boutique and had a long conversation with what I presume was the manager there. He basically told me that in order to sell watches they need to be on trend and 9 out of 10 people who come in and buy a watch ask for advice on which colors and collections are going to be in style. I was as surprised as you are but I don't think he was lying... enthusiasts are just not that big of a market and usually much less impulsive with their buying I would like to think.
Patek are not the only one doing this. Even people like JLC massively increasing their prices are taking advantage of people who actually care about the quality on their wrist! They're losing actually customers, not just people who do it for show!
Everything in society has become so hyped that people will roll over and play fetch at the chance to spend a lot of money for a product. If you don’t play the game you can’t get played. Plenty of amazing pieces that can be purchased with your dignity still intact.
Yes!
I don’t like the brand , I agree , peace ✌️
I NEVER understood the appeal of Patek in the slightest...
To digress, how many people can afford these gemset pateks? Most of us can’t. Their entry pateks are still classic and timeless imo.
Think that their target audience for this round of release is totally different. Probably flexing their muscles too.
Why even bother? PP is not an enthusiast brand. 99 percent of their buyers are ultra rich people who don’t care about horology. They just want a PP membership card.
Bloody silicon hairsprings ffs
Both my Nomos and MN-FXD run within COSC specs. That’s all I need.
In my humble opinion, the path they have chosen is a sign of the times we're going trough. I mean, the not so slow vanishing of the middle class, as a social indicator not in absolute numbers, means that poor are becoming poorer and on the other side rich are getting richer. Cutting the "low end" lines probably has not so much effect on their business, at least not that much as we as watch enthusiasts could think.
The iced out models you showed us are for a certain client, not only pop stars that come and go, but ultra rich people that buy them because they can, not necessarily because they want to be spotted with a rainbow Nautilus on the wrist.
The market is heading towards this kind of wealth, leaving the hard working mules behind.
Good points
While I respect your opinion I feel it's a bit harsh. There isn't ONE watch company in the world that I love every watch they make. You show a few examples to illustrate your point and I don't like those watches either. However what I do to get around that is simply buy the models I LIKE leaving the models I don't like for someone else to buy. I may not like what the company is doing but I will NEVER stop loving my Calatrava because of what the company is doing
The balance between style, opulence & grotesque 😂 it’s like a repeat of the 80s / 90s /00s In 12 months the interest will be gone and they will start to come back to us the collectors and enthusiasts and my gut tells me they won’t be well received. I’m done with Rolex, PP, AP I’m all in in Moser, VC, Panerai and believe it or not as my daily …I sold my sub at a profit after 7 years of ownership and with the margin I made have a Sinn U50. It makes me realise that in the quartz crisis the brands probably behaved like brats, the big boys are again going down the same road.
The only Pateks I like are the Nautilus and Aquanaut, the others are WAY too over-hyped like the Calatrava which is EXTREMELY plain/conservative...
Steel is a rarity for Patek. So it's common for Patek to not use steel. While I myself am not into "bling" personally, one must take into account that pateks are built extremely well. As for the boutique, I have had only great experiences with them. The truth is most watches really aren't on sale as they are mostly pre allocated on the waitlist. Yes that is real for some boutiques. However, the issue with this practice is some boutiques allow anyone to touch the watches in that one month. So I have taken order on watches that have been clearly scratched by someone's ring... from that point i have clearly voiced my concern and the boutiques have placed more clear wraps. But customers need to be considerate when they touch these watches also...
disagree that you can get similar new watches at 10k compared to a gold calatrava, mosers are clearly a tier below patek in finishing, are in steel and has no hand anglage etc. Most other brands under richemont like lange and jlc have significantly jacked up their prices especially in their entry level pieces, a saxonia thin costs 27k new now.
Well, I did had an experience with VC and they are excellent in welcoming costumer independently from where they come from. Cartier also demonstrate a very solid welcoming culture. Rolex otherwise set the value in the past, not in the present.
Patek, unlike Rolex, was never about the sports models. Their model line has always evolved as well, unlike Rolex. I would have loved it if they kept making the 5170, the 5110 and the 5196, but that's just not the way they do it. They wipe the sheets clean and make something else. So to expect them to be okay with being branded a luxury steel sports watch brand is not realistic.With regards to their buying experience, The staff at AD's have clearly been a bit frustrated with the lack of even dress watches of late, it's not normal for Patek,. But I have never experienced the kind of rudeness I have at Rolex AD's.
They look like Invicta homage watches.
Personally I Think they have lost their way since increasing their watch sizes above 37mm.
Gold and stones in watches are far higher than in any other place. However, they don't inproove watches Quality!! The former tool watches are now snobery items. 🤔
I’ve never liked them. I know they’re great watches but they’re not to my taste.
Perhaps Patek don’t want to sell their limited 65,000 output to flippers and dealers and restrict sales to known Patek collectors. Frustrating for sure if you want one and bit Catch 22! LOL.
I think among all luxury brands there will be good ADs and bad ADs that will enhance or sour one’s taste for the pieces. The way one is treated is all based on demand. The higher the demand for a brand, the higher the entitlement is among sellers of said brand (because they can assert more power). I think all of the holy trinity brands are awesome…it’s the demand that really drives how one is treated at the boutique. Personally, I work with just two ADs and both have been fantastic. Yes, I’ve had to wait a while for pieces and develop a spend history, but I’m fine with it because I love the pieces I get and I’m treated great. Again, the way a boutique deals with demand for a brand determines customers’ perceptions of that brand. Just my two cents.
I don’t want to disregard what anyone has experienced (all experiences are valid) and I hope the best for everyone in their collecting journeys :)
Imagine some people are flexing about having a Patek and they never actually heard of nor seen a Philippe Dufour watch.
I respect Vacheron Constantin. I don't like AP watches and sincerely with the exception of some past watches from Patek Philippe I'm not their fan either. I consider more the horlogerie feats of JLC to whom unfortunately lacks design for their last pieces. So from the holy trinity, VC, PF and AP I much prefer the teutonic feeling of A Lange & Söhne.
Excellent video! Very accurate on every point, well thought out, well spoken.
Regarding PP’s Mr Stern LE, Omega could offer a Ralph Kramden (image) Bang-Zoom LE.
What's worse, P Stern or Black Panther/Spiderman on the dial?
Makes sense but I think there’s more to this. Enzo Ferrari famously said Ferrari would produce “one less car than the market demand.” Creating scarcity is part of the game. Within reason scarcity is good for collectors as it safeguards value. Now the larger issue is the influx of uneducated consumers who care about prestige and flamboyance more than horological significance and mechanical artistry. I do agree that they’ve lost their way in kowtowing to the hoard. The issue is that the hoard’s interests will wane. When the bloom falls off the bush, it’s likely that many of the core case will have discovered loyalty with a worthy competitor. This is the beauty of the free market. Patek’s strategic fumbling will ultimately create opportunity for competitors who understand their core customer.
Patek isnt that special; you can get them from 6600 to 10.000....(used); maybe blacpain is more interesting
Wtf. No watch is worth the price they ask.
The brand doesn't make a sale person worth millions overnite. They can float themselves if they think they own the world. I wouldnt spend onany watch brands for showing negative attitude (sale person) & not stating true to itself.
They are made for people that like rainbows...
not all of the new releases are good looking.
but at least the company is trying to modernize its designs.
they dont want to become a dependent on one model like the Royal oak with AP.
and they dont want to be known as an old man watch.
new color dials, textured dials, straps, and cases.
the only thing it feels like they dont want to release is steel models.
i think they will get to the right destination. but it will take a few attempts.
He’s missing the point a bit that PP only makes c.60-80k watches a year and not 1.2M like the top brand.. If you want to keep the volume low, exclusivity high you can escalate the price for those with the money. Otherwise you just become Me2.
Selling a patek that you own and like because you don’t like a new iteration of watches is clinically insane. I keep hearing AP people say the same as well.
Watches aren’t voting chits. You can dislike the current rolex range but still own a 14060. They’re not mutually exclusive.
Vacheron constantin, A lange & sohne and JLC are the holy trinity imo
Whilst the face of PS isnt necessary when you own the company you can occasionally be self indulgent I guess and its for VIPs/collectors not the average joe.
Going hard after the rapper market…. They will sell everything they make….
Your words and perspective see’s it all about Patek! Top notch quality!
Some may label it merely a club, but from my perspective, it borders on a sect. Membership requires acceptance, involves overpaying for watches, and entails seeing pictures of, and listening to, accolades about their family's greatness.
Your done with Rolex now your done with Patek your going to run out watches
Hardly
You make a good point 😅
There is nothing wrong with turning away from cheesy stuff. There are still plenty of watch brands out there which give you a nice buying experience.
Patek is selling to actual rich people, not merely well off people who appreciate horology. That's why the emphasis on gem sets.
If you want a Patek, get a pre owned one. My used watch dealer has PPs for about 8K. Better yet, get a VC, Moser or Parm.
Hi John, you are 100% on point
Do you think I will get allowed a Nautilus if I am getting a tattoo of the Patek président's face on my bottom?
Have you tried asking them?
@@JohnPWatches😂😂😂 I would be actually too shy to show them the result. But I do agree with you: the ones with gems are so "unpatek" and the one with the former president face on it is so "North Korean" it's almost ridiculous
Audemars Piguet still good?