Patek Phillippe -- founded in 1839 and bought by the Stern family in 1832 -- produces around 50,000 watches a year . And Stern said reliability and a local clientele is part of the reason Patek Philippe has not fallen victim to the problems plaguing the single currency euro area . A Patek Philippe time piece commands a high price and usually increases in value with age . The watch is also known for its distinctive design, which has been copied many times over since it was first introduced to the public in 1837.
Patek Phillippe -- founded in 1839 and bought by the Stern family in 1832 -- produces around 50,000 watches a year . A Patek Philippe time piece commands a high price and usually increases in value with age . The watch is also known for its distinctive design, which has been copied many times over since it was first introduced to the public in 1837.