Patek Philippe - Calatrava - Ref. 565R - Men - 1950-1959

Extremely rare Patek Philippe 565R Vintage Calatrava in 18 kt rose gold. Patek Philippe 565R Vintage Calatrava in 18 kt rose gold, dial with Arabic numerals, water-resistant screw-down case back. This specimen has not been restored or excessively polished. Original dial. Well-preserved case with clear hallmarks. The watch is fitted with 12"120 calibre movement # 966638. Case # 658028. The watch was made in 1950. The watch also includes a genuine Patek brown alligator leather strap, vintage buckle, and an extract from the archives confirming its date of manufacture and subsequent sale in 1950. Shipping with full insurance, express delivery. Description: Patek Philippe’s benchmark 565 is one of the greatest time-only wristwatches of the 20th century. Released in 1938 and in production until 1952, this reference model was available at the same time as other iconic timepieces made by the firm, namely the iconic, complicated mid-20th century watches such as the perpetual calendar 1526 and 3448, and the perpetual calendar chronograph 1518 and 2499 watches. It is certainly one of Patek Philippe’s sportier models from this early era thanks to its robust, two-piece case construction and screw-down case back. Not only is it water resistant – something of a rarity in the 1940s – but the model also features an inner soft iron case to shield the movement from the adverse effects of magnetic fields. The outer case is composed of only two parts constructed without the habitual snap-on bezel, further suppressing another entry point of dust and humidity. The model was produced in a variety of combinations, from stainless steel to yellow and pink gold models, with both centre seconds and subsidiary seconds, as well as dials ranging from two-tone to silver to pink champagne. Moreover, the case has been preserved in excellent, unpolished condition, evidenced by the thick lugs and bezel. Along with contemporary timepieces like the 530, 570 and 1503 references, the benchmark 565 is among one of the most collectible and desirable vintage designs today because its modern aesthetic is as valid now as it was in 1938.