Patek Philippe Acquires Beyer Chronometrie for Zurich Flagship
The world’s oldest independent watch retailer closes in 2026 as its Bahnhofstrasse space becomes a dedicated Patek Philippe salon.
Summary
- Patek Philippe will fully acquire Beyer Chronometrie, ending the Zurich-based retailer’s 266-year run as an independent multibrand watch store
- The current shop on Bahnhofstrasse will close at the end of 2026 and reopen in 2027 as Patek Philippe’s fourth global flagship salon
- The historic Beyer watch museum is excluded from the sale and will be relocated to a new venue in Zurich
Patek Philippe has officially signed a deal to acquire Beyer Chronometrie, effectively bringing an end to the world’s oldest independent watch retailer. The historic multibrand store, located on Zurich’s famed Bahnhofstrasse, will permanently close its doors at the end of 2026. Beginning in 2027, Patek Philippe will take over the lease and transform the expansive location into a massive flagship salon, marking only the brand’s fourth global salon alongside its outposts in Geneva, London, and Paris.
The framework for the acquisition was set in motion when Patek Philippe quietly purchased a minority stake in the retailer in 2024. Following the unexpected passing of eighth-generation owner René Beyer in 2025, control of the company transferred to his sister, Muriel Zahn-Beyer. Because neither sibling had heirs, the full sale was deemed the most responsible outcome for the store’s employees and legacy. While the multibrand operations will cease, the renowned Beyer watch museum currently housed in the store’s basement is not included in the transaction and will be moved to a new location within Zurich.
