Introduction
Launched in 1968 and produced until 1971, the Calatrava ref. 3565/1 was ordered as part of the largest corporate order in the history of Patek Philippe. Designed as an exclusive reference for IOS, Investors Overseas Services Ltd - a major investor in Patek Philippe at the time, the ref. 3565/1 was gifted to IOS' highest achieving salesmen who reached $1,000,000 worth of sales by their CEO, Bernie Cornfield. With approximately 1500 pieces produced over its short life span, the ref. 3565/1 takes shape with a circular 18k gold case that houses an automatic movement and features an integrated 18k yellow gold bracelet that was attached to the case. Always featuring an engraved IOS "Million Dollar Associate" case back and IOS co-branded folding buckle, the ref. 3565/1 retains a physical link to its unique history that is quite charming. Some examples, like ours here, also feature IOS-inscribed dials that enable the timepiece in question to display its unique history to the world in a subtle and tasteful fashion.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
35mm
Model
IOS Million Dollar Calatrava
Movement
Automatic cal. 27-460M
Reference
3565/1
Bracelet
18k Yellow Gold bracelet
Year
Late 1960s
Condition
Very Good
Material
18k Yellow Gold
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Champagne
THE DIAL
Marked with its signature IOS inscription, this Calatrava was made specifically for Investors Overseas Services, Ltd - a major investor in Patek Philippe. A mark of achievement, these IOS Calatravas were gifted to any trader of IOS' that surpassed $1,000,000 in revenue and became a "Million Dollar Associate" - as inscribed on this ref. 3565/1's 18k gold caseback.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring a svelte 35mm round 18k case design free from traditional lugs, the Calatrava ref. 3565/1's 18k gold bracelet wraps around the wrist comfortably and thus allows the case to hug the wrist neatly.
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
The dial with some minor spotting. The case is nice and crisp with some light tarnishing that can easily be cleaned. The case back with crisp IOS inscription. The bracelet with light wear and some minor warping.
Our Perspective
Used as a mark of accomplishment, these IOS "Million Dollar Associate" Calatrava's were difficult for IOS' associates to earn, and so, its resulting small production run and historical link to one of the best-known finance companies of the 1960s and 70s make the ref. 3565/1 an interesting piece for any seasoned Patek Philippe collector.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
