Another showstopper.

I never tire of posting images from the long running Patek advertising campaign as there’s not a bad one to be found. Each tells a story with great charm and subtlety and the sheer physical beauty of the models is always to be wondered at.

Here’s the latest, Christmas 2018. The handsome father either made his money the smart way, by choosing his parents well, or is some sort of hedgie or Googleapplesoftie who sold out well. His son’s demeanor suggests a mix of curiosity and arrogance, and given that he has never wanted for anything, who can blame him? The lighting on the boy’s face is perfect, for he is as much the focus as the watch.

A magnificent image. The timepiece will allow you to choose between itself and a top-of-the-line Honda, as the prices are identical. I would rather not have the car.

I should warn you that there’s a price that comes with looking after your analog, mechanical Patek Philippe. My Nautilus has been off my wrist for 4 months this year, and counting, enjoying its second visit to the factory for what ails it. But when I next check the time I know the wait will have been worthwhile.

Gérald Genta’s greatest creation – the Nautilus.

My son rags me mercilessly about the rigors of maintenance and repair as he enjoys his joyless digital wonder, but one day the Nautilus will be his and he will understand. And, mercifully, he too is physically beautiful.