Phillips Names New Watch Specialist

RAPAPORT... Phillips, together with its partner Bacs & Russo, hasappointed James Marks as international watch specialist to oversee thedepartment's sourcing efforts, the auction house said Monday. Marks (pictured) comes from a finance background, andwas most recently a portfolio manager for a commodity hedge fund. He has been amember of the timepiece community for many years, primarily focusing on vintageRolex and Patek Phillipe wristwatches. Marks will work with current clients and cultivate new onesthrough his network in the industry. He will also focus on redefining Phillips'sUK watch strategy, as well as developing a long-term sourcing plan for the auctionhouse's selling centers and assisting with global auctions. "Coming to Phillips with an outstanding reputation in ourcommunity and a solid network within the collectors' community, we aredelighted to welcome James to our team of passionate specialists," said AurelBacs, senior consultant for Phillips. "James brings with him considerableknowledge and, like so many of us, he has now decided to turn his passion forwatches into a full-time career." Marks will be based in the company's London office. Phillips'swatch department is an association with Bacs & Russo, a timepiececonsultancy.