A sneak peek into the "Rare Handcrafts" exhibition currently being held at the Patek Philippe flagship store salon! [Video included]

The "Rare Handcrafts" exhibition was held at the Patek Philippe flagship store on Rue du Rhône in Geneva, coinciding with Watches & Wonders Geneva. It showcased exquisite handicrafts made by contemporary artisans.

"Rare Handcrafts" Exhibition at Patek Philippe Salon

　Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 concluded with great success. It was a "festival of luxury watches" involving the entire city of Geneva, combining "IN THE SALON" at Palexpo, which follows on from the legacy of the former SIHH, and "IN THE CITY," which was independently held in hotels and other locations around the city. Among these, I was particularly looking forward to the "Rare Handcrafts" exhibition, held annually at the Patek Philippe flagship store salon on Rue du Rhône. It represents the pinnacle of contemporary craftsmanship, weaving intricate microcosms that combine traditional techniques such as gemsetting, fine engraving, guilloching, enamel, and wood marquetry.

The highlight is wood marquetry

　This year's highlight pieces are both wood marquetry. The Ref. 5089G-129, with a Calatrava case and a wood inlaid dial, is titled "Morning on the beach" and depicts a surfer walking on the shore with his board.

　The pocket watch Ref. 995/143G-001 "Portrait of a white egret" is a masterpiece. It depicts the profile of a white egret by combining 53 pieces of carefully cut wood, and the vividness of the coloring is also captivating.

A selection of stunning enamel pieces

　What particularly impressed me was his enamel work. The wristwatch features grisaille pieces, each of which is a series of three pieces, each of which divides the 12 zodiac signs into four elements. While white pointillism is usually applied to a black background, in this piece the grisaille is placed on a dark blue background reminiscent of the night sky.

　The series of dome table clocks featured beautiful yuzu-like enamel surfaces encasing breathtaking cloisonné pieces, and in the spotlight of the showcase, the light reflected off the subtle undulations of the surface, making them sparkle lustrously.

　This year's collection seemed particularly large, but if I had to choose just one, it would probably be the Calatrava Ref. 5089G-119 "Southern brown kiwi," which features intricate engravings sealed in pale green enamel. This piece, which appears to be based on an old New Zealand stamp, is not only beautiful for its brilliant intricate engravings, but also for the texture of the layered enamel.

　This year, I was invited to the press day, so I was able to take my time to appreciate the exhibits, but the event is also open to the public. Among the festivals held throughout the city of Geneva, this event has a particularly cultural atmosphere. Perhaps the next generation of artisans will emerge from the young people of Geneva who experience and are inspired by it.

Overview of the "Rare Handcrafts Exhibition"

　The Rare Handcrafts exhibition will be open to the public at the Patek Philippe flagship store salon until Saturday, April 27, 2024. Admission is free. As the word "rare" suggests, it is a rare opportunity to see the world of Patek Philippe handcrafts, which are not usually readily available. If you have the time, we highly recommend that watch enthusiasts visit.

　If you wish to visit, it is recommended that you make a reservation in advance on the official website.

Click here to make a reservation.

Address: Patek Philippe Salons, rue du Rhône 41, 1204 Geneva
Opening hours: 11:00-18:00 (last entrance 17:00)
Closed: Sundays
Admission: Free

　It will also be held at the Patek Philippe Salon on Bond Street in London from Friday, June 7th to Sunday, June 16th.