Métiers d'Art

Behind the beauty of Patek Philippe’s rare handcrafts timepieces are centuries of artisanal skills that the Genevan manufacture have successfully preserved

- Annabel Tan

While the beautiful grand complications of Patek Philippe never fail to impress, what some may not know is that the Genevan manufacture also possesses exceptional savoir-faire. In fact, the watchmaker debuts a collection of rare handcrafts timepieces at Baselworld every year. The highly coveted pieces often fly under the radar, going straight to private collections.

Comprising dome clocks, pocket watches and wristwatches, this year’s collection boasts 50 unique pieces and limited editions showcasing a multitude of artisanal skills. This ranges from manual engraving, the oldest decorative art form associated with watchmaking, to enamelling and wood marquetry. Below, we take a closer look at some of these remarkable techniques.

Engraving