Patek Philippe

cal.12-120SC damascened nickel lever movement stamped twice with the Geneva seal, 20 jewels, bi-metallic compensation balance, adjusted to 8 positions, precision regulator, indirect centre seconds work visible to the back plate, soft metal movement cover • silvered dial with applied Breguet numerals with luminous accents above, outer chapter ring calibrated for minutes, luminous hands, blued steel center seconds hand • 18k gold case, screw-down case back • dial and movement signed

The movement is running while cataloguing. Dial with exceptional appeal due to its applied Breguet numerals. Case in good condition with some slight scuffs especially on on the case back. Hallmarks clearly visble on the sides. A very desirable and rare model.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production with Breguet numerals in 1942 and sale on September 20th, 1943.

The present lot is one of only 7 yellow gold reference 565 wristwatches known with centre seconds from the first series; only 4 wristwatches from the series are known with this combination of "chemin de fer" or railway track outer graduation and Breguet numerals. Production of reference 565 began in 1939 and was made in two series. The first series featured a calibre 12SC, movement with indirect seconds work by Victorin Piguet, whilst the second utilised a calibre 27SC. In 1952 the model was replaced by ref.2533.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time the present wristwatch has been offered for sale at auction.