artisans of time

rare handcrafts

As heir to the grand Geneva tradition, Patek Philippe has been safeguarding centuries-old Rare Handcrafts since 1839.

heritage and tradition

Every year, our artisans create exceptional and often unique timepieces: pocket watches, wristwatches, and clocks. These pieces showcase traditional, declining skills that call upon the expertise of the few specialists who still master unparalleled techniques. Through their work, we highlight and preserve savoir-faire in peril, ensuring that the art of fine watchmaking continues to thrive for future generations.

our rare handcrafts collection

rare handcrafts exhibition

Every year, a Rare Handcrafts exhibition takes place in the historical building that hosts our Geneva Salon. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to discover first-hand the exceptional creations of our artisans, exchange with them, and better understand their daily work, as they share their passion.

2024 Rare Handcrafts Exhibition in the Geneva Salon.

capital of rare handcrafts

Since the 17th century, Geneva has been a hub for all the trades and skills involved in producing and decorating handmade watches. Renowned internationally, the city was especially recognized for its exquisite fondant enamel creations. This legacy of craftsmanship and artistry has cemented Geneva's reputation as a premier center for watchmaking excellence, attracting enthusiasts and collectors from around the world.

geneva, 17th century

Place Saint Gervais, in the heart of the watchmakers' district.

From jewelry to watches

In 1541, the wearing of ornamental objects was banned by the reformer Jean Calvin in Geneva, forcing goldsmiths and jewelers to turn to watchmaking.

Developing watches

1685, many Huguenots took refuge in Geneva and contributed to the development of watchmaking.

President Thierry Stern is meticulous about every aspect of the watches produced, from their sound to their aesthetic craftsmanship.

Following his father’s tradition, Philippe Stern developed a collection that is on display at the Patek Philippe Museum.

The grandson of enamel painters, Henri Stern always had a taste for enameled watches, which he avidly collected.

a family passion

The Stern family always had a deep passion for Rare Handcrafts, especially enamel watches. Both Henri Stern and his son Philippe were avid collectors of these exquisite timepieces. Without their dedication to preserving and celebrating the art of enamel watchmaking during the 1970s and 1980s, at a time when demand was dramatically dropping, this extraordinary craft would have eventually disappeared.

the stern family

the art of enameling

We consider our enamelers as artists and alchemists, melding vibrant pigments with molten glass. With delicate precision, they transform metal surfaces into luminous canvases, layering translucent hues that capture and reflect light. Each piece becomes a unique tapestry, a testament to the artistry and patience of its creator, preserving the beauty of both art and craftsmanship in a gleaming, enduring embrace.

our enameling

the art of gemsetting

Our gemsetters meticulously place precious stones into their perfect settings – work that is entirely done by hand for our Rare Handcrafts timepieces. Whether they use snow setting, invisible setting, grain setting or our patented Flamme® setting technique, our gemsetters masterfully transform gems into enchanting masterpieces, adding the radiance of high jewelry to the mechanical perfection of high-end watchmaking.

our gemsetting

the art of guillochage

Guillocheurs engrave intricate patterns onto our dials, movements, cases or bracelets, using a specialized lathe. With precision and expertise, they create detailed designs that enhance the beauty of the material. Their craftsmanship can turn any watch component into a spectacular work of art, giving each of our Rare Handcrafts timepieces an absolutely unique aesthetic signature.

our guillochage

the art of engraving

Engravers transform metal into refined art by playing with light and using a binocular microscope for utterly precise work. This craft resembles free-hand drawing, but uses a burin on metal instead of a pencil on paper. For our Rare Handcrafts models, engraving enhances their beauty, complementing micro-marquetry and enamel work with intricate detail.

our engraving

the art of marquetry

Marquetry-makers delicately assemble tiny pieces of carefully selected woods to create intricate dials. Each piece they create is not just a functional device but a wearable work of art, imbued with a sense of elegance and refinement that transcends mere utility. With the precision of a surgeon and the vision of an artist, they orchestrate a symphony of colors and textures to form one of our miniature masterpieces.

our marquetry