The Patek Philippe Museum: discovering Switzerland's watchmaking heritage

The Patek Philippe Museum is housed in a magnificent industrial building constructed in 1919-1920. Bought by Patek Philippe in 1975 to house the Ateliers Réunis - a production unit for cases, bracelets and chains - the building was left empty when these activities were transferred to the new manufactory in Plan-les-Ouates in 1996.

Philippe Stern then decided to exhibit his collection there. Between 1999 and 2001, the building was completely restored and extended by one floor. The interior design was entrusted to his wife, Gerdi Stern, who wanted to give the space the warm, cosy atmosphere of a private salon. In November 2001, the collections of the Patek Philippe Museum were finally unveiled to the public.

The Patek Philippe Museum was born of a passion, that of Philippe Stern, Honorary President of the Manufacture, who gradually built up a very substantial collection. His ambition is to bring the great art of watchmaking to a wide audience, to contribute to the reputation of fine watchmaking in Geneva and to encourage the transmission of this heritage to younger generations. The museum, which opened its doors in November 2001, now boasts one of the world's largest and most prestigious watch collections. The museum can be visited on four levels, beginning on the ground floor and continuing on the 3rd, 2nd and 1st floors.

It offers a fabulous journey through five centuries of watchmaking art in Geneva, Switzerland and Europe - as well as a comprehensive overview of Patek Philippe's production since 1839. You can discover the different stages in the manufacture of a Patek Philippe watch, from the design of the movement to the final assembly, including the finishing and decoration of the pieces. You will be able to admire no fewer than 2,500 watches, automata, precious objects and miniature portraits on enamel. Not to mention a library of more than 8,000 works on the measurement of time.

The audioguide offers almost 20 hours of recordings in English. Visitors can use it as they wish, or follow a pre-established itinerary, such as the one suggested by Philippe Stern himself. Nearly 10,000 photographs complete the guide, allowing visitors to zoom in on details or admire elements not visible in the showcases.

If you prefer, you can also take a guided tour of the museum's collections, accompanied by a guide who will explain in person the age-old skills of watchmaking. Tours are organised every Saturday at 2.30pm in English.