First released in 1937, Patek Philippe’s reference 533 with its Calatrava case, flat bezel and elongated lugs is a chronograph instantly recognizable for its masculine contemporary appeal. In production for almost 20 years, research indicates only approximately 150 examples are known today making it one of the rarest chronograph models by the brand. Elevating the importance of the present watch, it is believed only 12 examples of the ref. 533 were fitted with a sector, or aviator’s, dial with the present watch being one of only six known to the market.

The sector dial has been in use by various Swiss manufacturers for approximately the last 100 years. The first known examples were found on pocket watches at the turn of the century, however as early as 1910 they began to appear on wristwatches, in particular during the First World War used by aviators. The design is a wonderful mix of the Art Deco and Bauhaus schools with two concentric circles, one for hours, and the other for minutes with radial lines creating the sectors. Often the dials were enhanced by various scales like a tachymeter or telemeter. These provided a functionality for aviators during the war, and their tool-like capability would later be of use in manufacturing and the early and growing motor sport field. The sector dial was popular during the 1930s, 40s and 50s, but gradually fell out of favour, however are now popular once again, as exemplified by Patek Philippe’s release of the reference 5296 with sector dial in 2005.

The present example from 1938 is extremely well-preserved and offered for the first time at auction. The correct long signature dial, with applied gold ‘12’ and ‘6’ hour markers, is stunning, with all of its original raised hard enamel printing remaining perfectly crisp. Even the comma between ‘Patek’ and ‘Philippe’, and the accent mark in ‘Genève’ remain intact. The case is equally well-preserved, with its gold hallmarks remaining crisp. The very contemporary and masculine look of this watch along with its freshness to the market makes this watch a treasure for any collector.