PATEK PHILIPPE | REF 2508, A STAINLESS STEEL CENTER SECONDS WRISTWATCH, MADE IN 1955 | 百達翡麗 | 2508型號精鋼腕錶，1955年製

With under 20 examples ever offered to the market, this first iteration Patek Philippe reference 2508 cased in stainless steel and presented in exceptional condition represents a rare opportunity to acquire what is rightly considered the pinnacle of Patek Philippe’s 20th Century design. Produced between 1951 and 1960, the reference 2508 features several elements that differentiate it from more classic vintage time only pieces. Its larger 35mm diameter case manufactured by Taubert & Fils closely resembles the celebrated chronograph reference 1463, and the screw-down case back gives it a sportier feel on the wrist. It was Patek Philippe's first foray into the water-proof time-only wrist watch market. In addition, as the forerunner to the Amagnetic references, it featured an innovative ’double case back’ design: a metal dust cap to keep moisture and magnetism at bay.

The dial, manufactured by the revered Stern Frères, has a raised signature in rich and hard enamel, enhanced by polished and faceted dart and square indexes and Dauphine hands. It retains its pronounced definition to the signature and minute track. The movement is a manually-wound caliber 27SC (signed 'Patek Philippe & Co.'), is nickel-plated and twice stamped with the Geneva seal.

The current watch is being offered from the private collection of Mr Angel Romero, the Spanish maestro guitarist, often considered the most important classical guitarist of the 20th Century. Born in Malaga, Spain, Angel Romero made his professional debut at the age of six and his United States debut at the Hollywood Bowl when he was 16. Alongside his father Celedonio, and older brothers Pepe and Celin they formed the Romero quartet, touring the world for over 30 years. In February 2000 he was presented with the highest honor that Spain has to offer, the ‘Grand Cross of Isabel la Católica’, and was knighted ‘Sir Angel Romero’ in the UK in honor of his astounding musical accomplishments and in 2007 was honored by the Recording Academy, producer of the Grammy Awards, with the Recording Academy President’s Merit Award for his significant contributions to the music world and for his professional career achievements. Angel continues to tour, playing to packed concert halls across the globe.

To the best of our knowledge, the present lot is being offered for the first time at public auction after having been in Mr. Romero’s collection for approximately forty years. He purchased it as a vintage piece circa 1980.