Patek Philippe’s reference 565 is one of the most classic gentleman 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 (FB stamp) 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, which was first released in 1932. The brand continued to manufacture the model until 1952. Designed for a public with a growing interest in outdoor activities, the reference 565 was waterproof with its screw-down caseback and offered with subsidiary seconds and less frequently, with center seconds. Over the course of time, the caliber was upgraded with first series examples, like the present watch, housing the caliber 12’’’120, while a Victorin Piguet indirect center seconds movement 12-120 SC was introduced in 1939, in 1950 a second series was released with the caliber 12’’’400, as well as the new caliber 27 SC (center seconds).

Fresh to the auction market, having been purchased by the consignor from the original owner’s family, the present reference 565 is offered in excellent overall condition, with its stunning and rare applied Breguet numeral dial confirmed on the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. The present time-only wristwatch with well-preserved raised enamel signature, is a sporty, elegant timepiece with a contemporary mid-twentieth century appeal.