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This platinum watch by Patek Philippe fetched $111,328 U.S. at auction

Patek Philippe

Platinum Patek Philippe sets a new record

There are some things that hold their value, no matter what.

A watch by Patek Philippe has that rare ability, a fact that is beautifully illustrated by the results of a recent auction in Geneva.

A platinum Patek Philippe set a new world record price at Antiquorum's Important Collectors' Wristwatches, Pocket Watches, Clocks & Horological Tools auction on Oct. 3 and 4. The Officier-style wristwatch, with perpetual calendar and retrograde date, was acquired for 114,000 Swiss francs or $111,328 U.S. The watch was made in 2007, and is self-winding with center seconds, moon phases and a platinum Patek Philippe deployant clasp.

Other notable lots in the sale included a Vacheron Constantin baguette diamond-set women's bracelet watch which fetched 96,000 Swiss francs or $93,750 U.S. Made in 1977, the yellow gold watch has a diamond and onyx dial and a bracelet that is entirely set with baguette diamonds totaling 18 carats.

But it is the record-breaking Patek, with memories of bank collapses and stock market plunges still fresh, that proves that buying quality can have unexpected rewards.