A white gold ultrathin Patek Philippe with both a blue dial and an extremely rare and valuable original box. Model reference 3566.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
Reference 3566 was launched, according to Patek Philippe’s authorised biography, in 1971. We have had another reference, model 3546, that we could get an extract from the archives for that was sold in December 1974. The case number of that watch was just 1742 more than this watch, so it is safe to assume they were sold around the same time. You can still get extract’s from Patek Philippe, but they have increased the price to CHF500 (about $500/€500/£400) which is hard to justify.
CONDITION
Calibre 175 movement was widely used in Patek Philippe models that were fashionably thin. It is, as you would expect from Patek Philippe, beautifully finished to a very high standard. The main model from this time was the Ellipse, which is still in production today, but these cushion cased reference 3566 are just a little wider and suit people that want something with traditional lugs. The spun dial is very good, and the video should be watched to see how this reflects light. The 0.750 / 18k white gold case is a mix of brushed and polished surfaces, and nothing is spared – the case back is heavier than far larger watches for example. The box is also a treat – leather and suede, with signed push release and only a few marks of age. Alone it is worth a significant amount, but it is also easy to store (unlike some of the modern boxes that take up masses of shelf space!) The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred.
This watch will be supplied with the original presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 29.8 mm
Width without crown 28.1 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 35.8 mm
Case Thickness 5.3 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
