Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe is a Swiss watch brand rooted in Patek, Czapek & Cie, established in Geneva in 1839. After Jean Adrien Philippe succeeded François Czapek, the firm was renamed Patek, Philippe & Cie.
Historical context
The company has made pocket watches, wristwatches and complicated timepieces across many periods. Names, signatures, references and movements vary. A watch made before the name change should not be expected to carry the same marking as a later Patek Philippe.
Identification
Examine dial, movement, case and numbers as a whole. A signed dial alone does not establish authenticity. Restoration, refinishing and replacement parts may affect historical integrity and value. Archive documents must match the actual numbers on the watch.