Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication — In-Depth Review
Introduction
Welcome to MUNTAJAT-BILS, where we explore the most iconic luxury timepieces in the world. In this post, we turn to one of the greatest achievements in horology — the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Jr. Supercomplication, widely regarded as a masterpiece of mechanical watchmaking and the most complicated watch of its era.
Historical Background & Significance
- The Supercomplication was commissioned by New York banker Henry Graves Jr. in 1925. ويكيبيديا+2christies.com+2
- It was delivered on January 19, 1933 after eight years of design and manufacture (3 years design + 5 years construction). ويكيبيديا+2Hodinkee+2
- For over 50 years, it remained the most complicated mechanical watch ever made without the help of computers. ويكيبيديا
- On November 11, 2014, it sold at auction in Geneva for CHF 23,237,000 (approx. US$ 24 million), setting a record for the most expensive watch at the time. Hodinkee+2فوربس+2
- The watch symbolizes not just technical brilliance but also a piece of horological history. Barnebys.com
Technical Specifications & Complications
Here are the most remarkable technical details of the Supercomplication:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reference / Serial | No. 198.385 (movement) ويكيبيديا |
| Number of Parts | 920 parts, including 430 screws, 110 wheels, and 70 jewels ويكيبيديا+1 |
| Case | 18k gold, double-dialed, double open-faced ويكيبيديا |
| Dimensions & Weight | Diameter: ~74 mm, thickness: ~36 mm (with glass), weight: ~536 g (case itself ~250 g) ويكيبيديا |
| Complications (24 total) | - Time (hours, minutes, seconds, sidereal time) - Sunrise and sunset times - Equation of time - Perpetual calendar (day, date, month, leap year), moon-phase, celestial chart for New York sky - Chronograph: split-seconds, 30-min register, 12-hour register - Sonnerie: grande sonnerie, petite sonnerie, minute repeater, alarm - Dual power reserve (for time + striking) - Central alarm, three-way crown setting, and more. ويكيبيديا |
Design & Aesthetics
- The watch is a pocket watch, not a wristwatch — emphasizing its monumental, almost architectural scale. Hodinkee
- It features two open-faced dials, allowing the wearer to access different sets of functions. Hodinkee
- The case design, crafted by Luc Rochat, is both elegant and robust, befitting a timepiece meant to house such complexity. ويكيبيديا
- One dial presents classic timekeeping and calendar indicators; the other supports chronograph and astronomical displays (like New York’s night sky). Hodinkee
- The craftsmanship is highly refined: each part was hand-finished, and the construction done without modern computer assistance — a testament to traditional watchmaking artistry. ويكيبيديا
Rarity & Exclusivity
- This is a unique, one-of-a-kind pocket watch, never made in a series. Barnebys.com
- Its commissioning by a financier of Henry Graves Jr.’s stature adds to its provenance. christies.com
- Its sale in 2014 at a record-breaking price further cements its legacy in the world of collectible watches. Hodinkee
- For many collectors, this timepiece is the holy grail of mechanical art, due to its historical significance and technical mastery.
Strengths & Highlights
- Technical Mastery: With 24 complications, this watch is a marvel of micro-engineering.
- Historical Value: Commissioned by one of the most famous horological patrons, Henry Graves Jr.
- Artisan Craftsmanship: Hand-assembled with hundreds of parts and jewels, without computer aids.
- Auction Prestige: Its multi-million-dollar sale reflects its status as a collectible treasure.
- Legacy: Even decades after its creation, it remains a cornerstone in Patek Philippe’s heritage and watchmaking history.
Limitations & Challenges
- Functionality: As a pocket watch, it is not wearable in the modern, wristwatch sense.
- Size & Weight: Very large and heavy — not practical for everyday handling.
- Maintenance: Servicing such a complex, old mechanical masterpiece is expensive and requires specialized skill.
- Liquidity: Although highly valuable, very few buyers can afford or seriously bid on such a piece.
- Security & Insurance: The value demands very high insurance coverage and strong security measures.
Investment Potential
- Ultra-High Collector Appeal: For serious collectors, it’s not just a watch — it’s an horological icon.
- Proven Record: Its record auction price is proof of its desirability in the secondary market.
- Heritage Asset: It has significant historical importance, enhancing its long-term value.
- Risk Factors: Very limited potential buyers and potential servicing risk due to complexity and age.
Who Is This Watch For?
- Legacy collectors and ultra-wealthy individuals who appreciate horological history.
- Patrons who value mechanical complications more than aesthetics.
- Museums or institutions focused on watchmaking heritage and mechanical art.
- Investors in high-end, ultra-rare, and historically significant timepieces.
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Conclusion & Verdict
The Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication is not just a watch — it is one of the most important mechanical creations in the history of horology. On MUNTAJAT-BILS, this review highlights its unmatched complexity, its auction legacy, and its status as a true masterpiece.
Verdict: For those who value technical innovation, heritage, and absolute rarity, this timepiece is the ultimate acquisition. It is an embodiment of horological artistry, a symbol of prestige, and a highly significant investment piece.