Sir Peter Hall (1930-2017) was one of the greats of British Theatre and held the position of Director of the National Theatre from 1973 until 1988. In 2017 the National Theatre captured his extensive experience and passion for theatre wonderfully describing how ‘Peter Hall was an internationally celebrated stage director and theatre impresario, whose influence on the artistic life of Britain in the 20th century was unparalleled. His extraordinary career spanned more than half a century: in his mid-20s he staged the English language premiere of Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot. In 1960, aged 29, Peter Hall founded the Royal Shakespeare Company which he led until 1968. The RSC realised his pioneering vision of a resident ensemble of actors, directors and designers producing both classic and modern texts with a clear house style in both Stratford and London.

Appointed Director of the National Theatre in 1973, Peter Hall was responsible for the move from the Old Vic to the purpose-built complex on the South Bank. He successfully established the company in its new home in spite of union unrest and widespread scepticism. After leaving the National Theatre in 1988, he formed the Peter Hall Company (1988–2011) and in 2003 became the founding director of the Rose Theatre Kingston. Throughout his career, Sir Peter was a vociferous champion of public funding for the arts.’

The current lot is a classic Day-Date in white gold with a sunburst silvered dial. Based on the serial number the watch dates to around the time that Sir Peter became involved with the Rose Theatre Kingston.