Patek Philippe Calatrava 565

Patek Philippe Ref. 565 A rare and attractive stainless steel wristwatch with Breguet numerals

Manufacturer : Patek Philippe Year : 1944 Reference No : 565 Movement No : 924’829 Case No : 630’357 Material : Stainless steel Calibre : Manual, cal. 12-120, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap : Leather Clasp/Buckle : Stainless steel Patek Philippe pin buckle Dimensions : 35mm Diameter Signed : Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories : Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with Breguet numerals in 1944, and its subsequent sale on July 19th, 1944 The reference 565 is one of the most classic gentleman's wristwatches of the 20th century. Released in 1938, the model featured innovative and enduring qualities that today make it a collector’s favorite. These including the two piece Taubert case with screw down back, an inner soft iron cover to protect the movement from the adverse effects of magnetic fields, and a more generous 35mm diameter case, compared to the smaller reference 96. The brand continued to manufacture the model until 1952, and in an era when yellow gold timepieces were de riguer, most examples were made in yellow gold, with fewer examples in pink gold and rarely in stainless steel. Designed for a public with a growing interest in outdoor activities, the reference 565 was waterproof with its screw-down case back. The present example is nicely aged and the silvered dial features Breguet numerals as confirmed by the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. Historical research suggests that Henry Graves, one of the most prominent early 20th century collectors, wore a reference 565 as his daily wristwatch - a testament to the importance of this reference. It is a lovely example of the reference 565, certain to impress.