The Patek Philippe IOS is a watch with an intriguing history.
Known as Investors Overseas Services Ltd, or IOS, came into being in 1955, founded by salesman and financier Bernard Cornfield. He began selling mutual funds in the American stock market and by the late 60’s IOS was managing about 2.5 billion dollars so they invested in properties, banks and companies which they also acquired a huge stake in Patek Philippe. So this watch, in all gold was commissioned and rewarded to the top traders with over US$1million turnover. It is thought that about 1500 pieces of these "Million Dollars Association" watches were made.
By 1970, IOS started to collapse and ruined many but this Patek Philippe was probably the only item of value left, a relic and reminder of greed and fraud. The bracelet will fit a 16.5 to 19cm wrist.
Further reading available here and here.
