Patek Philippe | Switzerland's first, Patek Philippe's first wristwatch

Patek Philippe

First Swiss wristwatch

The first Swiss wristwatch

In 1868, Patek Philippe created a watch with a modern concept. It was the first wristwatch from a Swiss watchmaker.

Text by KOIZUMI Yoko

The first Swiss wristwatch by Patek Philippe

This time, we introduce the first Swiss wristwatch, and Patek Philippe's first wristwatch. While watches had been attached to beautifully jeweled bracelets before, the bracelet of this watch is slender and simply finished, with the watch as the clear focus of the design. This distinction sets it apart from earlier examples. It can be considered the origin of the wristwatch as we know it today. Patek Philippe's sales ledgers record that it was purchased by Countess Koscziusko of Hungary on November 13, 1876.

At first glance, this wristwatch resembles jewelry, but it is a type of secret watch, where the watch is revealed upon opening a cover. The watch is composed of three squares: the central watch section with its cover, and the left and right cases that flank it.

However, while categorized as a wristwatch, it was made for the Countess to wear, so its decorative beauty is akin to jewelry. The top of the cover is adorned with two types of three-dimensional petals surrounding diamonds, and the top of the case is finished with black enamel, set with rose-cut diamonds framed in gold filigree.

The way the hue of the diamonds is altered by changing the color of the base is a subtle, delightful touch. Furthermore, unlike other models where the case is engraved, this one is decorated with three-dimensional forms, showcasing Patek Philippe's originality.

The watch's movement was manufactured in 1868. Patek Philippe possessed the technology for manufacturing ultra-small watches 146 years ago.