Patek Philippe Saga

In the latest edition of FORBES magazine, widely-published watch journalist Jack Forster, in his multi-faceted article Time Bandits (pages 156-160 of the May 7, 2012 issue), resurrects the story of the now famous “Howard Hughes” Patek Philippe watch. Unfortunately (though unintentionally), Perpetuelle was not credited for the brief mention that the story received in FORBES. Yes, while “famous” is perhaps a bit strong to describe the notoriety of this event, the Curious Case of the “Howard Hughes” Patek Philippe was a story that originated here at Perpetuelle.com, and for those of you who missed it the first time around, follow me now as I recount the saga.  This is one interesting story!

It started in June 2010 with a Patek Philippe Ref. 1463 watch to be auctioned by Christie’s — the watch was purportedly of great provenance, a gift to a Mr. Donald Woolbright from the late billionaire, investor, aviator, & film producer-turned philanthropist Howard Hughes.  What a watch to own, eh?!  Christie’s was certainly not shy in playing up the Howard Hughes connection of the watch.  Naturally, I featured the watch on Perpetuelle on June 3, 2010, expressing admiration for Hughes and excitement for the auction.  Not so fast, though — an unsolicited and completely out-of-the-blue comment by one Paul B. Winn on my article Howard Hughes Patek Philippe Ref. 1463 Up At Auction turned my world upside down and launched a tantalizing story of mystery, stonewalling and deceit.  It unfolded over the next two weeks on Perpetuelle.com.