Patek Philippe | The Ultimate Family Heirloom Watch

In today's throwaway culture, watches are some of the few possessions that people still view as heirlooms. The question is, what makes a good heirloom watch? 

The first reason for investing in a good heirloom watch is perhaps the most obvious, and that's value. We all know that watches can retail for exceptionally high prices, and that naturally makes them something worth holding on to and keeping in the family. But it's not just the initial expense that comes into play. Many people purchase a watch as an investment, in the belief that it will increase in value. 

Despite popular belief, however, this isn't always a guaranteed thing. Sure, the vintage watch market has skyrocketed over the past decade, but it's by no means guaranteed that a watch will increase in value over time. Like any collectable item, factors like the brand, model and condition all play a major role in determining a watch's future value and collectibility. 

The second pillar of what makes an ideal heirloom watch is craftsmanship. One of the best things about watches, especially higher-end pieces, is that they are impressive feats of mechanical engineering. A well-made wristwatch is a thing of beauty, and the skill that goes into designing and producing a fine watch is something that a lot of us can appreciate. 

The final, and most important, aspect of what makes a good heirloom is its sentimental value. Despite what we've written about value and craftsmanship, what matters most is the emotions it evokes when the person who inherits the watch wears it. The best heirloom watch will be one that reflects the original owner's personality. A trusty companion that epitomises what was most loved about them. It might reflect their fashion sense, or it might remind you that they always wore it out fishing. Whatever it is, a watch that as worn by a parent or a loved one can be very emotive object. 

Obviously, this sentimental value is something that is built up over the life of the watch, and can't be artifically created. Instead, it deveelops over time, like the patina on a fine vintage watch. 

In other words, it's down to you to make the memories that will give your heirloom watch emotional value to those who inherit it, which means that you only need to consider the first two aspects of value and craftsmanship (along with the design) when buying an heirloom watch. 

Fortunately, there is one brand whose watches are guaranteed to tick these first two requirements of holding or incrasing in value, and of eing exceptionally well made. That brand is Patek Philippe.

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is the oldest independent, family-owned Genevan watch manufacturer. The company places a strong emphasis on producing a strong emphasis on producing the finest quality mechanical watches that are finished to the highest possible standards, and because of this Patek Philippe is regarded as one of the top watch brands in the world.

In October 2022, Patek Philippe unveiled several new models, including a new version of one of their most iconic models, the Nautilus. 2021, saw Patek Philippe discontinue the fan-favourite steel 5711 Nautilus, and the new 5811/1G brings back that design but this time in white gold. 

The case is a masculine 41mm but it's also just 8.2mm thick which means that it should wear well on the wrist. 

The Nautilus was first launed in 1976 and has remained relatively unchanged since. However, that's by no means a bad thing, as it has gone on to become considered one of the most iconic watch designs ever produced. The Nautilus's signature look is the brainchild of Gérald Genta, who is probably the most revered watch designer to have ever lived. He took inspiration from the porthole of a ship and was aiming to create something that was strikingly different from previous sports watches of the era.

The watch also has a display case back, so you can see the stunning Patek Philippe Caliber 26-330 S C automatic movement, with its solid 21-carat gold rotor. The movement contains 30 jewels, features a 45-hour power reserve, and is impeccably decorated. 

Choosing a watch as an heirloom is a very subjective thing, it has to be a watch you love for what it is. You can't choose it just based of the retail price, and there many great choices out there at all price points. However, if you are fortunate enough to afford a new Nautilus then you won't be disappointed. There isn't a finer watch out there to eventually pass on to your children, and it's why Patek Philippe's tagline is the immortal words: "You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation."