Patek Philippe “Les Grecques”: a balance of the Greek ideal

May 16

Written By Bas

The 19823 “Les Grecques” model line by Patek Philippe. Based on the Greek ideal of the perfect blend and unity of body and mind, form and content.

When I think about vintage Patek Philippe, the marketing message has always been clear. Producing the best of the best, without any marketing fuss.

Patek Philippe Nautilus 1976 — *Patek Philippe Nautilus advertisement in 1976*

The Patek Philippe Nautilus, introduced in 1976, might have marked a shift towards “marketing” with a luxury watch in steel, but it still relied heavily on its exceptional Patek Philippe quality.

Les Grecques

The "Les Grecques" (Translated The Greeks) model line, introduced in 1983, was certainly a watch relying more on it’s backstory combined with it’s design. It drew inspiration from the Greek ideal of ancient values and everlasting beauty. The case inspired to resemble the Greek temples and the dial decorated with Meander or also known as the Greek Line.

The model was made with manual winding calibers and quartz movements.

Patek Philippe Les Grecques Brochure 1983

Translated 1983 Les Grecques brochure

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The Greek ideal is the origin of our culture.

This ideal still serves as a model today. It symbolizes the unity of body and mind, of form and content.

Patek Philippe is committed to this ideal: the combination of creativity and precious materials.

<<<Les Grecques”, which you will discover here, is a successful synthesis of past and future. The harmony of the forms goes back to the golden rule that was already valid in the temple building of the ancient Greeks. At Patek Philippe, precious materials - gold and gemstones - are processed with great craftsmanship and artistic skill and assembled into modern watches according to the rules of centuries-old watchmaking art.

Here the art of antiquity and the experience of Patek Philippe come together to create a lasting work.

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Ancient Greek culture contains an enduring measure of harmony and beauty that continues to amaze even people of our own age.

Patek Philippe maintains this heritage. Because true beauty never fades.

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The mother of all arts - Greek culture, and especially architecture, gives us an incomparable sense of proportion, which is expressed in this Patek Philippe collection.

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Shapes, dimensions, motifs: the genius, knowledge and timeless charisma

of Greek culture have shaped an entire universe.

A Patek Philippe is also passed down from generation to generation. That is the privilege of true works of art.

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The Greek ideal. Patek Philippe lives by this inexhaustible cultural heritage.

Every single creation is characterized by symmetry, harmony and beauty.

Because these masterpieces are made only from the finest materials with

great craftsmanship. This Patek Philippe collection is also a tribute to one of the most ancient values: everlasting beauty.