Gold Pocket Watch Sells for a Record Price
A remarkable piece of history has recently changed hands at an auction in Wiltshire, England. A gold pocket watch, originally gifted to Arthur Rostron, the captain of the RMS Carpathia, has sold for an astonishing £1.56 million (€1.87 million). This sale sets a new record for Titanic-related memorabilia, highlighting the ongoing fascination with the tragic sinking of the renowned ocean liner in 1912.
The Titanic Connection
The gold pocket watch was given to Captain Rostron by the wives of passengers who were rescued by the Carpathia following the Titanic disaster. Over 700 passengers were saved thanks to Rostron’s quick actions that night. Previously, the record for a Titanic artifact was held by John Jacob Astor’s gold watch, which sold for £1.175 million (€1.40 million) just months prior. Astor, one of the wealthiest individuals aboard the Titanic, tragically lost his life in the disaster, further cementing the emotional weight of such collectibles.
A Collector’s Prize
The recent auction caught the attention of collectors worldwide, culminating in a heated bidding war that ultimately led to the watch being acquired by a collector from the United States. As the highest amount ever paid for a Titanic-related item, this auction not only represents the enduring legacy of the ship but also the deep emotional connection many individuals still have with this tragic event in maritime history.
