Calatrava, Reference 565 | A yellow gold wristwatch | Made in 1947
Patek Philippe
Dial: silvered Calibre: cal. 12-120 manual winding, 18 jewels Movement number: 960’102 Case: 18k yellow gold, screw-down case back Case number: 647’351 Closure: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle Size: 34.5 mm diameter Signed: case, dial and movement Box: no Papers: no Accessories: two Patek Philippe Extracts from the Archives confirming date of sale on September 18, 1947 and service invoice dated January 2020Released in 1932, the Patek Philippe Calatrava stands as a beacon of understated elegance, its very name evoking the legacy of the Calatrava Knights, who once marched through Spain and Portugal in the 12th and 13th centuries. Conceived as a symbol of simplicity and sophistication, inspired by the Bauhaus movement, the Calatrava embodies the art of refinement, where every detail is meticulously crafted to evoke beauty through restraint. Its allure lies in the purity of its form, a timeless elegance that has captivated collectors for nearly a century. The reference 565, a prime example of this enduring legacy, was introduced in 1938 as a larger, more robust sibling to the original ref. 96. With a 34.5mm case, a striking departure from the smaller 31mm size of its predecessor, the ref. 565 elevated the Calatrava to new heights. Designed with both style and functionality in mind, it became the first Patek Philippe model to feature a two-part screw-back case with a dust cover, affording the wearer an element of water resistance rarely seen in dress watches of the era. The ref. 565’s sportier profile, combined with its impeccable craftsmanship, made it a favourite amongst discerning collectors, while its production continued until 1952 when it was succeeded by the ref. 2532. This particular example, made in 1947, boasts the highly coveted long “Patek Philippe & Co.” signature on its dial, a rare and prestigious feature only found on watches produced before that year. The hallmark on the case band, perfectly preserved next to the winding crown, further attests to its remarkable condition. The case itself, crafted by the famed Taubert workshop, reflects Patek Philippe’s heritage of excellence in water-resistant design, akin to their legendary references such as the 1463, 96A, and 1486. The ref. 565’s influence resonates even today, having inspired the creation of the 2006 stainless steel ref. 5565, which is a modern homage to its enduring appeal. For the contemporary collector, this watch is not merely a relic of the past but a timeless masterpiece that effortlessly merges heritage with present-day sensibilities. In the ref. 565, Patek Philippe’s philosophy of “elegance through simplicity” is at its purest, offering a piece that transcends trends and remains as relevant today as when it was first conceived.
