By Michelle Zhang (Shanghai Daily)
Updated: 2006-12-01 10:42

Renowned Patek Philippe, which once made exquisite timepieces for Chinese emperors, today is targeting China with precious watches, some containing timeless celestial data.

Patek Philippe, arguably the No. 1 watch brand in the world, is famous for the celebrated quote: "You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation."

The Swiss watchmaker in Geneva is now bringing to Shanghai the legacies that our forefathers left us - 250 fine timepieces valued at more than 100 million yuan (US$12.76 million). They will be on display at Bund 18 from today through Sunday. Admission is free.

The company has spent nearly a year preparing the large exhibition - "The Values of a Family Watch Company" - targeting the Chinese market. It opened in Hong Kong two weeks ago, Shanghai is the second and final stop.

"The China's mainland market is very important to us, though we entered the market only one year ago," says Thierry Stern, vice president of Patek Philippe.

"After our first successful year of operation in Shanghai, we have decided that it is an appropriate time to organize an exclusive exhibition. It showcases the history of Patek Philippe and the watch making industry, as well as China's watch history."

One of the most fascinating watches on display is the Star Caliber 2000, a millennial gift to the watch-making industry: it has 1,118 parts and incorporates 21 different "complications" or functions.

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