Recently, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Elliott Broidy, a notable entrepreneur, philanthropist, and passionate watch enthusiast. Known for his investments in industries ranging from defense to public safety, Broidy’s interest in timepieces, particularly those from Patek Philippe, adds another dimension to his fascinating life. In this interview, he shares his journey with watches, his admiration for the Patek Philippe brand, and reveals one of the most prized pieces in his collection, the rare and intricate Patek Philippe 5016P-018 Minute Repeater Tourbillon Retrograde Perpetual Calendar.
NYW: Elliott, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with your love for watches—where did it all begin?
Broidy: Thank you; it’s a pleasure to be here. My fascination with watches started in my teens. For me, watches represent more than just tools for telling time—they’re an art form, a marvel of craftsmanship and engineering that you can wear. Over the years, this appreciation has deepened, especially as I began marking life’s most significant moments with specific pieces. Each watch in my collection tells a story. For example, I bought certain watches to celebrate the birth of my children; others I bought after major business milestones; and some I’ve acquired as anniversary gifts for my wife. These aren’t just watches; they’re tangible reminders of the blessings in my life.
NYW: You’re particularly drawn to Patek Philippe. What is it about the brand that resonates with you?
Broidy: Patek Philippe, to me, embodies the pinnacle of watchmaking. Their motto, “You never actually own a Patek Philippe; you merely look after it for the next generation,” perfectly encapsulates their philosophy. These watches are heirlooms, crafted with such precision and care that they transcend trends and time. When I look at a Patek, I don’t just see a watch—I see a legacy. That aligns deeply with my values, both in my personal life and in my philanthropic work.
NYW: Your collection includes some highly coveted pieces, but one stands out in particular: the Patek Philippe 5016P-018. Can you tell us about what makes this watch so special?
Broidy: Ah, the 5016P-018. It’s certainly a standout in my collection. It combines a minute repeater, a tourbillon, and a retrograde perpetual calendar—all in a subtle platinum case. What I love most is its quiet elegance. It doesn’t shout for attention, but those who recognize it understand its significance. Every time I wear it, I’m reminded of the incredible craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating it.
NYW: What do you feel when you look down at your wrist and see a piece like the 5016P?
Broidy: Every glance is a reminder. The chime of the minute repeater is like a tiny symphony, and the hidden tourbillon is a constant symbol of complexity and movement. But more than that, it makes me think about the passage of time—how fleeting it is. It’s humbling. It reminds me to focus on what truly matters: my family, my community, and society at large. That’s why I dedicate time and resources to contribute to causes that are important to me, like supporting community hospitals, organizations helping foster children, and groups fighting antisemitism.
NYW: That’s a beautiful way to look at it. Do your watches inspire conversations with your family?
Broidy: Absolutely. When I discuss my watches with my children, it’s not just about how extraordinary the watches are —it’s about the values they represent. Dedication to craftsmanship, precision, determination, family, and using time wisely and compassionately. I want my children to understand that it’s not just about collecting things; it’s about creating meaning and making a positive impact on the world.
NYW: For those who might be considering their first serious timepiece, what advice would you offer?
Broidy: Start with what speaks to you personally. Watches are deeply intimate objects—they should resonate with your journey. Don’t worry about trends or investments; focus on the level of detail you want and how the piece fits into your lifestyle. When you find the right piece, it will feel like it was always meant to be yours.
NYW: Elliott, thank you for sharing your watch story with us. It’s clear that watches are more than a passion for you—they’re part of your life’s journey.
Broidy: Thank you. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my love for watches with others who appreciate their artistry and meaning.
About Elliott Broidy
Elliott Broidy is an entrepreneur who has used his extensive experience and talent to found, invest, and in some cases, manage as CEO, more than 160 companies over his four-decade career. Since 2014, he has focused on technology businesses (including, more recently, AI) in the defense intelligence, homeland security, public safety, and law enforcement sectors.