itors had access to exceptional pocket watches and wristwatches dating back to 1530, all in a space of more than 13,000 square feet. They were enticed from room to room, each one a focus on a different period and theme central to fine watchmaking. A special salon was dedicated to vital pieces from the great American collectors and featured 27 price- less masterpieces, including timepieces and clocks owned by banker Henry Graves, president John F. Kennedy, automobile maker James Ward Packard and many more. While the experience itself was both luxurious and awe-inspiring — seeing so many of the world’s most valuable timepieces in a single location! — it was also relaxed and approachable in the most charming way. Nearly 40,000 people would experi- ence the exhibition in its run from July 13 to 23. In honor of the exhibition, de Boulle took the opportunity to fly many of its closest friends and clients for an experience in New York that money alone could not buy. Karen and Denis Boulle, along with de Boulle president Jeff Bartley, attended a special sneak peek at an exclusive black-tie gala at The Metro- politan Museum of Art. Soon after the start of the exhibition at Cipriani, guests arrived at the stun- ning and historic Plaza Hotel, just off Central Park. After welcome drinks, everyone made their way to a welcome party: The entire downstairs room of Avra Madison Estiatorio, the wonderful Greek restaurant, was blocked off, with tables ready for the group of excited guests. Meals were served family style, with Denis welcoming everyone to what would be an exciting weekend. The next morning, everyone gathered for coffee at the hotel, then boarded a bus for the short ride to “The Art of Watches” exhibition. Upon arrival,
de Boulle guests were ushered through the VIP entrance, then had their photos taken near the beautiful entryway. Next, everyone was greeted by Larry Pettinelli and Lisa Jones, president and vice president, respectively, of Patek Philippe in the United States, who gave an insider’s idea of the meaning and work that went into the brand’s marvelous showcase. For the amazing exhibition to come together, it took roughly three years of planning and develop- ment, including designing the two-story structure and designing and making special pieces in honor of the event. Many of the special-edition timepiec- es are one-of-one editions, or pièces unique , but all have a flair and a focus on the beauty of the United States and the market’s significance in the history of Patek Philippe. The watches introduced to commemorate the exhibition range from men’s and ladies’ World Time complications with the New York skyline in the faces to a pilot’s version of the famous Calatrava, in stainless steel, refer- ence 5522A. Most notable is the World Time Min- ute Repeater, reference 5531R, which debuts to the world a new complication that allows it to chime the local time no matter where it is being worn, anywhere in the world.
de Boulle’s guests spent more than two hours touring the grand exhibition before a delicious lunch, served at the Alsatian-inspired eponymous restaurant of chef Gabriel Kreuther. In addition to Larry Pettinelli and Lisa Jones, the group was honored by the presence of several notable attend- ees from Patek Philippe’s New York and Geneva offices. Many guests returned to the exhibition af- terward, to look more closely, ask more questions of the watchmakers and to discover pieces they might’ve missed. After more time at the exhibit — an immersive museum in every way — and some time to enjoy the city, a fantastic farewell dinner was served at chef Thomas Keller’s three-Michelin-star Per Se, where guests were treated to an eight-course meal. The fun continued in The Plaza Hotel’s bar until late into the night, complete with a surprise visit from the pizza man. Only in New York... A special note for everyone who was able to attend our Patek Philippe experience: We sincerely thank you for being a part of it. We hope it enriched your education, your interest and your passion for Patek Philippe and for de Boulle.
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