Fresh to market and from the family of the original owner, the former head of the Romanian Red Cross, the present Patek Philippe reference 2554 in white gold is an incredibly seldom opportunity to own a prized timepiece designed by none other than Gilbert Albert. According to research, about 60 examples were manufactured in white gold with the present lot being the ninth known example returning to the market.

Reference 2554
The original Patek Philippe reference 2554 was launched in 1950 and featured a rectangular tank-shaped case, designated as reference 2554-1. Interestingly, it was not until 1952 that the so-called 'Manta Ray' was unveiled with curvaceous and concave sides, a shape credited to legendary designer and the at-the-time head of the Patek Philippe workshop Mr. Gilbert Albert. In the 6 years to follow, new versions were introduced almost every year with slight variations in the case, finishing, and metals utilized with some models even featuring bi or tri-metal gold. These references ranged from 2554-2 to 2554-10. There were versions were fitted on matching-finish bracelets and others had gem-set dials.

The 'standard' versions were made in yellow, pink, white gold, and platinum. All of the reference 2554 watches feature a two-part Markowski (Geneva Key 8), the well-known case manufacturer that specialized in shaped cases. Tastefully, the crown is inset into the case side, adding to the watch's streamline appearance. Many years later to celebrate the Millennium Anniversary Collection in 2000, reference 2554 served as inspiration for the commemorative reference 5100 with a 10-day power reserve and tourbillon fitted into a 'Manta Ray' style case.