Tiffany & Co. Shatters Records: Titanic-Linked Pocket Watch Sells for $1.97M in Historic Auction

The pocket watch was originally presented to Captain Arthur Rostron of the RMS Carpathia, the ship that famously diverted its course to rescue over 700 survivors from the Titanic disaster in April 1912. This exquisite timepiece was a gift from the widows of three prominent businessmen—John Jacob Astor IV, John B. Thayer, and George D. Widener—who tragically perished in the sinking. The inscription on the watch reads: “Presented to Captain Rostron with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors of the Titanic April 15th 1912 Mrs John B Thayer, Mrs. John Jacob Astor and Mrs. George D … .”

The Auction and Acquisition

The watch was sold by Henry Aldridge & Son, a renowned auction house specializing in Titanic memorabilia. The final hammer price of £1.56 million (approximately $1.97 million) set a new world record for Titanic-related artifacts, surpassing the previous record held by a pocket watch belonging to John Jacob Astor IV, which sold for £1.175 million earlier this year.

The Significance of the Timepiece

Crafted by Tiffany & Co. in the early 20th century, the pocket watch is an exemplar of the brand’s superior craftsmanship. Its historical significance is further elevated by its association with Captain Rostron, who was lauded for his heroic efforts during the Titanic disaster. Rostron’s decisive actions and the Carpathia’s rapid response were instrumental in saving the lives of those stranded in the icy waters of the North Atlantic.

The watch’s provenance and the poignant inscription from the grateful widows add layers of historical and emotional depth, making it a unique artifact that bridges the realms of luxury, history, and human interest.

Tiffany & Co.’s Legacy and Historical Acquisitions

Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837, has a storied history of producing exquisite jewelry and timepieces. The acquisition of the Titanic-linked pocket watch aligns with the company’s tradition of valuing and preserving items of historical significance. This purchase not only enhances Tiffany’s archival collection but also serves as a tribute to the artisans who crafted the piece and the historical narratives it represents.

The Enduring Fascination with Titanic Memorabilia

The Titanic disaster continues to captivate public imagination, and artifacts from the ship are highly sought after by collectors and institutions alike. The record-breaking sale of Captain Rostron’s pocket watch is indicative of the deep-seated interest and value attributed to items associated with the Titanic. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge noted, “The fact the world record price for Titanic memorabilia has been broken twice this year demonstrates the ever-decreasing supply and an ever-increasing demand for memorabilia related to the ship.”