Introduction
Released in 1932 and named after the cross that the Calatrava Knights paraded around Spain and Portugal during the 12th and 13th centuries, the Patek Philippe Calatrava was released as a simple timepiece with broad appeal that would help secure Patek Philippe's finances following Jean and Charles Henri Stern's investment in the brand in the same year. Designed with a strict Bauhaus-inspired aesthetic in mind, the Calatrava used, and continues to use, simplicity as its means of establishing intrigue around the craftsmanship required to construct such a stunning timepiece. Without a complicated movement or a busy design, collectors gravitate towards the Calatrava's clean aesthetic and practicality, and the ref. 565 we have here embodies that same design language perfectly. Launched in 1938 alongside the ref. 570, the ref. 565 was a larger version of the original Calatrava (the ref. 96) with a 35.5mm case instead of the 31mm used by the ref. 96. Designed as a sportier watch, it was the first Patek to feature a screw-down caseback and offer its wearer some water resistance, making it far more capable than most other dress watches at the time. Still practical for a modern collector, the ref. 565 merges the Calatrava's original design brief in its purest form with a diameter that contemporary collectors can enjoy to this very day.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract of the Archives
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
35.5mm
Model
Calatrava
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 12-120
Reference
565J
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1950
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch and Extract from the Archives
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting a bright silver dial with applied Breguet numerals at each of the quarter hours and applied indices elsewhere, this ref. 565J is a wonderful example of Patek's mid-century watchmaking prowess.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Nicknamed the "Calatravone," the ref. 565 has its large 35.5mm case diameter to thank for its nickname and outstanding, and rather contemporary, fit on the wrist. In addition to its larger size, it was also the first Patek to feature a screw-down caseback.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall very good condition. The yellow gold case shows light surface scratches and marks, while the decagonal case back displays light surface scratches. Lugs have soft wear on the surfaces, but a crisp hallmark remains on the crown side. The original indelible dial has been cleaned at some point, and the signature shows some softness. Watch is fitted with a black Patek alligator strap and a yellow gold pin buckle, both remaining in excellent condition. Comes with Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
A calculated release on Patek's behalf as they noticed the shrinking demand for the ref. 96's small 31mm case, the ref. 565 was Patek's legendary solution to a contentious topic watchmakers still haven't resolved to this day; how big should watches be?
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
