Patek vs AP

Back in the day, say pre-1985 or so, the 'trinity' was at the top of the pyramid. Privately owned they all produced great classic timepieces. The Royal Oak, Nautilus and 222 were very niche markets. Now their are all kinds of makers producing better finished products, so the idea of a trinity is somewhat out of date. Rolex makes good watches but nowhere in the league of AP, VC, or PP as far as finishing is concerned. JLC is good, but not in the same league. ALS could be considered, but also Breguet, Journe, Jurgensen and others as well.

I'm saying that, in my opinion, PP quality has already gone down over the last few decades as the company has become more commercial in its approach to the industry, and this has happened under the Stern ownership. I have no prediction what would happen to quality if the company was sold. Again, just my opinion whose first really good watch was a new Patek Philippe in 1979.