Patek Philippe Ref 2554 J, also known as the “Manta Ray”, is one of the rarest rectangular avant-garde wristwatches from Patek Philippe’s post-war production era. Very few 1950s designs exude as much confidence, flamboyance, and elegance as the Ref 2554, and among the surviving examples a handful are preserved in such good condition as the present example.
Ref 2554 was made for a relatively short period from 1950 to 1960. However, it is the design that Patek revisited when they launched the limited-edition Ref 5100 8-day power reserve in the year 2000.
The present watch was stored in a safe and unworn for 20 years, developing a warm patina that ensconces the gold. The case is in excellent condition and only lightly polished in its lifetime – if at all – because it still retains sharp edges and a crisp hallmark found in between the lugs in the 6 o’clock position. We have examined the dial outside of the case and it is perfect, without any signs of age, and with raised enamel on the signature.
Patek Philippe form watches are a rare breed, and the Manta Ray (much Like Gilbert Albert’s Ricochet collection) is from an era when the designers drew inspiration from shapes and textures of nature. These designs were groundbreaking in the 1950s and are experiencing a major resurgence now. While this watch is without a doubt a significant investment, it represents great value and rarity relative to the astonishing auction results achieved recently by the manufacturer’s Gilbert Albert models. It is also priced below Patek’s mass-produced current production models.
Includes Patek Archival Extract confirming production of this watch in 1957.
Size: 28 mm x 40 mm
Case: 18k yellow gold
Watch Movement: Caliber 9-90 manual, 18 jewels, 18,000 vph
Accompanied By: Original Gold Buckle
