Patek Philippe Ref 2554 J, Manta Ray, Rare, Exquisite Condition Circa 1950s

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 si