Tokyo's GRANDEST Show

The Patek Philippe Watch Art Grand Exhibition’s latest chapter in Tokyo.

- KELVIN TAN

Patek Philippe selected Japan as the location for its sixth grand exhibition, showcasing the world of the independent family-owned Genevan watch manufacture. Held from June 10 to 25, 2023, visitors experienced a captivating atmosphere reminiscent of Geneva’s streets and lakeside, providing an immersive journey into the brand’s heritage. Spanning over 2,500 sqm, the exhibition was the largest ever organised by Patek Philippe.

After all, Japan holds a special place for Patek Philippe, as it represents a market of discerning connoisseurs who appreciate rare handcrafts and value the technical excellence and meticulous craftsmanship embodied in each timepiece. The event took place at the Sumitomo Sankaku Hiroba in the Nishi-Shinjuku district and recreated the ambience of Patek Philippe’s birthplace.

MUSEUM AND MANUFACTORY MASTERPIECES 

A highlight of the exhibition was the presence of around 190 pieces from the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva, including rare and historical watches from the Antique Collection dating back to the sixteenth to early nineteenth century. It features some of the oldest watches in the world and highlights the evolution of horology. The Patek Philippe Collection displays iconic timepieces such as the first perpetual calendar wristwatch from 1925 and the World Time wristwatch from 1948. A special section called Historical Owners presents watches owned by notable individuals, including a pendant watch gifted to Queen Victoria in 1851.