- A gold pocket watch belonging to John Jacob Astor, the richest passenger aboard the Titanic, was auctioned in the UK for a record-breaking £1.17 million ($1.46 million).
- The sale far surpassed the auctioneer’s estimate and marks the highest amount ever paid for an item linked to the historic 1912 maritime disaster.
The auction of a gold pocket watch belonging to John Jacob Astor, one of the wealthiest passengers aboard the ill-fated Titanic, made headlines as it fetched a record price of £1.17 million ($1.46 million) in the United Kingdom. The watch, engraved with the initials “JJA,” was sold by Henry Aldridge & Son on Saturday, surpassing the auctioneers’ initial estimate by over tenfold.
Significance of the Auction
The sale of Astor’s pocket watch marks a significant moment in Titanic history, as it represents the highest amount ever paid for an item associated with the tragic maritime disaster of 1912. Astor, a prominent US-based business magnate, tragically perished along with many others when the Titanic sank on its maiden voyage.
Bidding War and Buyer
The auction witnessed a fierce bidding war, with a US buyer ultimately securing the prized possession. The winning bid far exceeded the auctioneers’ presale estimate range of £100,000-£150,000 ($126,000-$189,500), highlighting the immense value placed on historical artifacts linked to the Titanic.
Engraved with Initials JJA
The gold pocket watch, bearing the initials “JJA” for John Jacob Astor, adds to the allure of the artifact. Astor’s association with the Titanic as one of its wealthiest passengers adds historical and sentimental value to the timepiece, contributing to its remarkable sale price.
Record-Breaking Auction
The sale of Astor’s gold pocket watch sets a new benchmark for Titanic-related memorabilia, underscoring the enduring fascination with the tragic events of 1912. The record-breaking auction reflects the continued interest and reverence for the stories and artifacts associated with the iconic maritime disaster.
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Source: Aljazeera
