The beauty of Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe is a timeless Swiss luxury watch manufacturer that draws its origins as early as 1839. With age comes sophistication, and Patek Philippe has been commissioned by high-profiled royalty such as British Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Now men and women of class can exude that same sophistication and royalty by buying Patek Philippe timepieces from Chong Hing Jewelers. Chong Hing Jewelers has an elegant collection of Pateck Philippe watch for both men and women. Our collection of Patek Philippe watches include square-faced and round-faced watches; gold up to 18 karat and white gold with diamonds, and durable stainless steel.

Patek Philippe also set the standard for complicated timepieces and pioneered split-seconds hand, minute repeater, and the perpetual calendar. And here at Chong Hing Jewelers, our Patek Philippe collection delivers the same timepieces built to perfection. Our Patek Philippe collection has essential functions such as the annual calendar chronograph, and also purveys complicated watches by Patek Philippe.

Wristwatches by Patek Philippe are known for their class and sophistication, and therefore make great presents for extra special occasions such as for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and career promotions. Who could turn down such a present of great elegance?

Chong Hing Jewelers is a purveyor of high-class, luxury jewelry, and an authorized dealer of Patek Philippe wristwatches. Having been in business for up to 40 years, Chong Hing Jewelers have an excellent record in quality customer service and keen expertise in high-end jewelry pieces. Visit Chong Hing Jewelers’ website for our full collection of Patek Philippe wristwatches and other luxury jewelry.

Advantages of Buying Patek Philippe Watch from an Authorized Dealer

Patek Philippe - 5712R

When it comes to buying, customers like getting discounts and bargains. That is why there are flea markets, bazaars, direct sellers, online entrepreneurs and a whole gamut of other dealers outside of the original manufacturer. But when it comes to buying luxury items, buying from somewhere other than the original manufacturer can be a tricky prospect. Sure, it may be cheaper and possibly even easier, but are you really getting your money’s worth?

Luxury items, like Patek Philippe watches, are sold through limited and select dealers because of their value. If you are interested in purchasing a Patek Philippe watch, then you are investing a substantial amount of money for a premium item. Some shady dealer might tempt you with a “bargain” deal, but beware! Premium brands like Patek Philippe are expensive for good reason. If you are truly after value, then here are some reasons why you should only buy your Patek Philippe watch from an authorized dealer.

1. An authorized dealer can order special parts or accessories for your Patek Philippe watch. This is extremely important since each Patek Philippe watch is made individually and not as a product of a factory line.

2. An authorized dealer can add a one or even two year warranty extension on top of the manufacturer’s warranty. Additionally, the manufacturer’s warranty may also be honored by other authorized dealers.

Patek Philippe Twenty~4 Ladies Watch 4910-20G

3. If you buy your Patek Philippe watch from an authorized dealer and you encounter a problem, you can ask the manufacturer to intervene on your behalf whereas if you buy from an unauthorized manufacturer, you’re stuck with whatever service they offer you.

4. An authorized dealer can be trusted to provide you with top notch customer service. For example, take a look at authorized dealer Chong Hing Jewelers. Chong Hing Jewelers has been in the business since 1970 and is a trusted supplier of luxury brands like Patek Philippe, Chopard, Tag Heuer, and more, so you know you’re in good hands.

Why Luxury Watches Make Perfect Wedding Day Gifts

Giving gifts to your soon-to-be lifetime partner on the biggest event of your lives go as far back as the Victorian era. It is a custom practiced by many and unlike any other occasion, this gift has to be utterly perfect. Why? Because it is a gift to commemorate your wedding day, a gift that when seen or worn, would whisk you both back to that special day you decided to swap I do’s.

Luxury watches such as Patek Philippe, IWC, Tag Heuer, and the like make a perfect wedding day gift. Here’s why: 

A wedding is an investment – an investment on your feelings. You choose to wholeheartedly cherish and love one another until your dying days. Similarly, a luxury watch like a Patek Philippe, Omega, etc. is well worth the investment. These timepieces boast of impeccable quality. The skill and horological expertise combined with its history are what makes luxury watches above the rest.

A wedding is a momentous event that when remembered, it brings you back to the day in your life where you felt extreme joy. You always want you keep those memories close to your heart. A Patek Philippe watch or any similar luxury watch is something personal. You wear it with you all the time, constantly very close to you. Every time you see this perfection in a timepiece on your wrist, you are instantly reminded of that one perfect day in your life.

A wedding is only the beginning of a journey towards marital bliss. As the years pass by, your companionship only goes deeper and deeper, adding irreplaceable value into your marriage. Luxury watches, similarly, do not grow old. A Patek Philippe watch, for example, increases in value as time passes by. The real value of these luxury watches is its lasting value, making it a perfect symbolical gift for your better half.

Patek Philippe Through History

Although they can admittedly be a bit lavish and extravagant, those same qualities are part of what make up the glamour of a Patek Philippe watch. Each Patek Philippe watch is a masterpiece; a legendary craft enlightened by a rich history and advanced watch-making technology. Because of the unique charisma a Patek Philippe carries, they have been and still are the timepiece of choice for many of history’s most notable figures.

As far back as 1851, the Patek Philippe Company held a close relationship with Queen Victoria and began to supply luxury watches to both her and the royal court. This gesture set ablaze the fervor for Patek Philippe timepieces in European roylty. Since then, the exquisite timepieces from this Geneva-based manufacturer have been a symbol of dignity and royalty, making a Patek Philippe watch almost a necessity.

Other notable people in history whose wrists have been adorned by a Patek Philippe watch include Pope Pius IX, the King and Queen Christian IX and Louise of Denmark, the king of Italy, the Duke of Savoy Victor-Emanuel III, and the Sultan of Egypt Hussein Kamel.

Today, a Patek Philippe watch is the top choice for collectors, luxury watch enthusiasts, and remains so for many prominent figures. Among the famous people who have been spotted with a discriminating Patek Philippe timepiece are Vladimir Putin of Russia, King Juan Carlos of Spain, Prince Charles of Wales, and Hollywood celebrities like Michael Douglas and Nicholas Cage.

A Patek Philippe watch is truly in a league of its own. Valuable because of their lasting value, they are remarkable timepieces that provide extreme loyalty, not only from past owners to present ones, but to future owners as well. 

Top Trends in Patek Philippe and Other Luxury Watches for 2010

IWC-Portuguese Perpetual Calendar Watch

In the world of horology, trends come and go when it comes to luxury timepieces such as Patek Philippe, Harry Winston, Hearts on Fire, and Gucci. Luxury watches are fashion accessories worn by the rich and famous. Annually, Swiss watchmakers start a trend that watchlovers follow. For the year of 2010, the top trends for Patek Philippe timepieces and other luxury watches are the following:

• Rose gold as a new source of material and design for fine watches. Patek Philippe and IWC are recognized as pioneers in this trend when they launched rose gold fine watches in 2009. Timepieces in rose gold are more elegant and the quality is tougher than yellow gold. Watch lovers sporting luxury watches in rose gold exude a feeling of warmth and playfulness. Additionally, watches in rose gold are more charming and magnificent looking.

• Technique is more important than anything else. Beauty is a plus, but this year, technique seems to place more value on the luxury watch than its aesthetic worth. Movements with complicated functions such as the Patek Philippe perpetual calendar and tourbillion are legends in the world of watchmaking. Function and movement decorations are greatly improving and these increase the prices of luxury timepieces.
  
  IWC - Pilot's Watch Classic
• Diamonds, diamonds, and more diamonds. What timepiece would be complete without luxurious diamonds that add shine and sparkle to Patek Philippe brand pieces and other fine watches? The more diamonds encased in watches, the more value they will add to your timepiece.

Trends may come and go but it’s also important to note that luxury timepieces by Patek Philippe, Omega, Panerai, and other world-renowned watchmakers accumulate value over time. Take great care of your watch to guarantee that its value grows over the years.

The Different Styles of Luxury Watches Based on Function

IWC - Pilot's Watch Classic

Luxury timepieces can be categorized according to movement and function. Patek Philippe watches and other fine wristwatches can either be chronograph, quartz, mechanical, automatic, jewel, or perpetual – all differentiated by their distinct movements. Because men lead an active lifestyle, they should factor this in when choosing luxury watches. Fortunately, fine watches such as Patek Philippe, Omega, and Tag Heuer also manufacture watches for divers, military men, pilots, and sailors specifically.

Military watches should be durable, sturdy, and reliable because of the range of activities a man in the army participates in. Military watches often feature a 24-hour dial and 3 symbols which represent the strength of the military over land, sea, and air. It’s important that military watches have a chronograph because of its usefulness – a built-in timer with a long-lasting backlight.

The birth of diving watches was paved with the invention of water-proof watches. Diving watches require extra protection from water and moisture. This is made possible with gaskets or O-rings between the glass and bezel, the bezel and the case, and the case back and the case. The Swiss industry requires certification to guarantee the water-resistance of these Patek Philippe and other luxury watches, which manufacturers rely on to confirm the warranty of their watches.

Pilot watches have a number of features and functions that makes their expensive prices well worth it. Pilot watches keep time, have a countdown timer with an alarm, an elapsed time chronometer, and at least two time zones. Time zones are important in pilot watches because pilots often cross different time zones when in flight. Additionally, pilot watches are expensive because they are targeted for pilots – a profession that pays extremely well.

Swiss watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, IWC, Panerai, and Chopard are among a wide range of luxury watches to choose from. Just because these specialty watches cater to specific watch lovers, it doesn’t mean that other watch lovers can’t purchase them. Luxury timepieces are for everybody, as long as you know what you want then everything should be just fine.

Patek Philippe and Other Luxury Brands are Well Worth the Investment

Patek Philippe - 5712R

For a lot of people, owning a Patek Philippe or other luxury watch brand of the same caliber is an extravagance. How can a timekeeping device fetch thousands of dollars when a simple watch can serve the same purpose? It’s generally understood that a Patek Philippe or similar watch is not for everyone. These luxury brands cater only to the upper echelons of society.

A snobbish and lavish commodity, indeed; but are watches such as Patek Philippe, Omega watch, IWC, etc. worth the investment? The answer is yes.

Here’s why…

The reason why Patek Philippe and other luxury watch brands cost as much as thousands of dollars is because of their impeccable quality. The skill and the mastery that go into the production of luxury timepieces are what put them above the rest. Take for example the Geneva Seal, which is a certification bearing the highest standards by which a watch is judged. It is a mark of distinction, of extreme excellence, of pinpoint accuracy, and horological expertise. A Patek Philippe bears the Geneva Seal, boasting of perfection in a timepiece.

IWC - Da Vinci

It’s been shown time and again that luxury watches are legacies – they become family heirlooms, something passed on from generation to generation. As the famous Patek Philippe tagline goes, “You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely take care of it for the next generation.” And as time passes by, these luxury watches actually increase in value. 

Luxury watches also carry with them a deep-rooted history. Switzerland is known to be the producer of the world’s finest watches. For many years and generations, the finest horologists have been outdoing themselves to deliver more complicated timepieces, emanating extreme elegance and style. Owning a Patek Philippe watch or other similar watch brand gives you a sense of pride, knowing that you are wearing a piece of this proud history.

Of course, one must not forget that a Patek Philippe watch and other luxury watches are in a league of its own. Wearing one instantly marks your status in society. It commands respect, denoting great taste, class, and sophistication. To own a luxury watch requires a discerning eye in addition to having flair and style. Only a real connoisseur can truly grasp the quality, history, precision, status, and value a luxury timepiece offers.

Luxury Watches Make Perfect Gifts: Patek Philippe, Omega, and more

To celebrate special occasions with the one you love, you’d want nothing but the best gift possible. Consider the gift of a luxury watch from Patek Philippe, Omega, or IWC for a timeless investment. A luxury watch, such as a Patek Philippe, is passed on from one generation to the next and appreciates in value over time. Just like your feelings for that special person, a luxury watch becomes more valuable with the passing of time.

Chopard - Happy Sports New Generation

Aside from being timeless investments, luxury watches are also practical. A Patek Philippe watch that is handcrafted to perfection is unbeatable in precision and accuracy. Patek Philippe and other luxury watch brands serve a multitude of purposes, such as a date tracker, a stopwatch, an alarm, etc. Practical and timeless, a luxury watch is a possession that will be cherished for a long, long time.

A Patek Philippe watch, an Omega watch, Chopard, Panerai, etc. also serve as s stylish investment. With many fine pieces to choose from, luxury watches meet and match anyone’s lifestyle. For example, Patek Philippe or Tag Heuer sports watches offer many options for different sporting needs. If your better half is a businessperson or a socialite, luxury watches come in a range of colors and embellishments to match any business suit or evening gown.

Given as a gift, Patek Philippe and other luxury watches carry a sentiment that is unmatchable by any flower, wine, greeting card, clothing, or a fancy dinner.

On Becoming a Luxury Watch Collector…

Part of the appeal of collecting something stems from our childhoods spent hoarding comic books, stamps, stickers, sports cards, coins, etc. The thrill of seeking out something to add to a collection brings an inexplicable joy. Collecting luxury watches such as a Patek Philippe, Omega, Tag Heuer, and the like are no exception to the fascination and satisfaction brought about by being a collector. Seeing the endless array of Patek Philippe watches, Rolex watches, and other cutting edge timepieces created by the finest watchmakers is just as exhilarating to a watch collector as vintage cars are to automobile enthusiasts. The fascination that watch collectors have with the latest styles, mechanisms, movements, and precision of luxury timepieces makes them want to collect more and more Patek Philippe watches, among other luxury watches.

Thinking of becoming a luxury watch collector? Here’s how:

Omega - Steel-Red Gold on steel-gold full bar

While seeing the many styles of Patek Philippe, Omega, IWC, Panerai and others stimulate your passion to start collecting luxury watches, the hobby doesn’t allow you to instantly pick out a luxury watch simply because it looks appealing. If you are serious about becoming a watch collector, it is best to develop your collection slowly. Try and gain insight on the luxury watch making industry as the more information your have, the more likely it is that your Patek Philippe or other similar brand watch becomes an integral and lasting addition to your collection.

With the many Patek Philippe, Longines, Chopard, etc. styles to choose from, where should one start in luxury watch collecting?  As a newbie luxury watch collector, start by choosing a Patek Philippe watch for work, a Tag Heuer watch for sporting activities, a jeweled Chopard or Bvlgari watch for dressing up, and perhaps another Patek Philippe or Omega watch for casual events. As you gain more insight on luxury watches, your collection can be expanded to different types or styles of watches. For example, you might consider collecting the different types of movement watches, which involves the engineering of a luxury watch. Or you might consider a collection on complication timepieces or even watches with perpetual calendars such as the ones offered by Patek Philippe and other brands. The possibilities are endless and the choices are almost infinite.

Lastly, seek out publications that focus on the ins and outs of Patek Philippe and other luxury watch brands. Join social groups who are into luxury watch collecting. Watch collectors have a wealth of information they are eager to share to help you become successful in your luxury watch collecting efforts.

How to Determine Authenticity of Patek Philippe Luxury Watches

While everyone would like to strike for a great deal in purchasing a luxury watch such as a Patek Philippe, one must be wary of replica luxury watches. To be sure that your luxury watch is authentic, a number of things must be considered to ensure that money is not wasted on scams or replica timepieces.

Patek Philippe - 5960P

Purchase from Authorized Dealers

Buyers of luxury watches believe that the best place from which you can guarantee an authentic luxury watch is purchasing from the manufacturer itself. While a trip to Geneva and knocking on the Patek Philippe factory sounds enticing, this method of purchasing a luxury watch is the most expensive and the most difficult to do. The best option is to purchase from an authorized dealer or reseller. Some luxury watch companies only allow certain resellers to sell their products in order to control the instances of replica watches. To narrow your search for an authorized dealer of Patek Philippe and other luxury watch brands, you may contact the watch manufacturer and ask who their authorized reseller is in your specific area.

Chopard - Happy Sports New Generation

Get in touch with the Authorized Dealer

It becomes of utmost importance to contact the authorized watch dealer and ask them questions on your Patek Philippe luxury watch of choice to ensure that they are legitimate sellers. They should be able to guide you in purchasing your luxury watch and be extremely knowledgeable on the features and functionality of the watch.

Look for Special Authentication Markings

A specific marking or signature on a Patek Philippe luxury watch proves its authenticity. Research and know the specific marking of the manufacturer of the luxury watch of your choice. Oftentimes, these markings are engraved to prove its legitimacy. Double check serial numbers and ensure that these are not scratched off.

A Guide on Basic Luxury Watch Movements and Features

What sets a Patek Philippe and other luxury brand watches apart is not just their design, but also the skill necessary to produce this work of art. The true beauty of an Omega or Patek Philippe watch stems from its precision in movement and artistry.

To help you appreciate the magnificence of luxury watches, below is a guide on the different classifications of a precision timepiece.

Harry Winston - The Ocean Planet ( Project Z4) Dual time

Quartz Technology

Over the years, quartz technology has gained popularity due to its efficiency in timekeeping. The Swiss Quartz movements are known for its accuracy and reliability. It also has the greatest advantage when it comes to the price.

Mechanical Movement

Mechanical watches are created around an older technology that has been in existence for centuries. The movement uses the energy from a wound spring and keeps time through a greatly regulated release of that energy on a set of wheels, gears, and other mechanisms. These types of watches last for decades and do not need a battery. The more mechanical a watch is, the more it increases in value.

Bvlgari - BZero1

Automatic/Self Winding

Automatic luxury timepieces are the most sought after as they are mechanical, but driven by human movement. These luxury watches wind themselves by the motion of the wearer and remains wound as long as there is movement.

Jewel Movement

This involves the use of jewels that have been drilled and polished to act as bearings for its components as these gems resist temperature better than metal, hold its lubrication much longer, and reduce the friction of mechanical parts against each other.  Most luxury watches will have 19 jewels and above, representing the number of gems used in creating the masterpiece.

Jaeger-LeCoultre - Master 8-Days Perpetual

Chronograph

A chronograph luxury watch breaks down time into hours, minutes and seconds. Other chronograph watches show moon phases and calendars broken down into dates and years. These are very interesting complications that can be placed in a watch as it produces sporty image.

Perpetual Calendar

A perpetual calendar changes the date automatically on the simple date window of a luxury watch, keeping track of the date, day of the week, year, month, leap year, and even centuries.  Only an experienced watchmaker such as a Patek Philippe watch can produce such complex timepieces.

Caring for your Luxury Watch

Brands such as Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer, Omega, and the like are valued for their precision and movement. While luxury watches from Omega, Patek Philippe, and Tag Heuer, etc. boast of supreme quality, these watches still need the proper maintenance to keep them functioning properly and maintain its longevity.

Below are some points to consider in caring for luxury watches:

Water - Most luxury watches, such as those from Patek Philippe, are already made resistant to water. Be sure to rid the watch of remaining chlorine when used in swimming. Salt water, however, causes more damage than regular water as salt can cause corrosion to the watch’s exterior. Remove watches prior to salt-water swimming.

Shock - One strong impact can instantly damage a watch in a second. It is advisable for athletes, sportsmen, or runners to remove the watch before doing such activities, lest the luxury watch is made to specifically withstand such conditions.

Temperature - Refrain from exposing the watch to extreme heat or cold for extended periods of time. Extreme heat shortens battery life while extreme cold affects the timekeeping accuracy.

Chemical Contact - Gases, solvents, chemicals, etc. damage the watch by causing discoloration and deterioration. Refrain from wearing the watch when dealing with chemicals.

Electrical Contact - While most household appliances do not pose a threat, most luxury watches cannot withstand strong electric fields or static electricity. Refrain from wearing the watch in these areas, lest it is made to withstand such conditions.

Expert’s Touch - Luxury watches, such as those from Patek Philippe, Omega, and Tag Heuer need to be cleaned and serviced from time to time. Since every watch is made unique, refer to the manual for special instructions and the frequency of having it serviced. Always let a specialist handle the watch.

How to Clean Wristwatches

Wristwatches define a lifestyle. Luxury timepieces from Patek Philippe, Bvlgari, Omega and Chopard make a definite statement and are heirlooms that will be passed from one generation to the next. It is important that proper care is given for these pieces to last. Below is a list on how to care for your sublime wristwatch.

1. First, gather your materials. You will need rubbing alcohol, a soft-bristled toothbrush, lint-free cloth, white vinegar and baking soda.
2. If you can, gently remove the bracelet but do not force it if the bracelet is difficult to disengage. Be extra cautious to keep the watch from getting wet as this might damage the timepiece.
3. To make scrubbing easier, soak the bracelet in water and dish soap or rubbing alcohol for a couple hours.
4. After soaking, scrub out the dirt in between the links of the bracelet by using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Swiss watches like Patek Philippe are manufactured with only the highest quality bracelets that make scrubbing easier.
5. As much as possible, use a lint-free cloth when drying the bracelet to avoid getting fibers stuck in between the links. If you had dismantled the bracelet from the watch, it can now be re-attached.
6. Leather straps can be cleaned by using a mixture of white vinegar and water. Scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure that the straps are dried thoroughly before wearing them. Luxury timepieces such as Patek Philippe, Omega, Breguet or Harry Winston offer wristwatches with leather straps that are easy to clean and dry.