Titanic hero’s watch sold at auction

A Titanic hero’s watch fetched 1.7 million euros, breaking all records for items linked to the legendary shipwreck.

Last Saturday, an 18-carat gold watch by Tiffany & Co. sold to an American collector for 1.79 million euros. This precious artifact belonged to Captain Arthur Rostron, hero of the rescue of over 700 Titanic passengers and crew with his ship, the RMS Carpathia.

An object steeped in history

Presented in 1912 by three Titanic survivors, the watch bears a moving inscription: “Presented to Captain Rostron with the sincere gratitude and appreciation of three Titanic survivors”. These survivors were the wives of wealthy businessmen who died in the sinking, including John Jacob Astor IV, the richest man on board. According to the archives, the watch was presented to Rostron at a ceremony at the Astor mansion in New York.

Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge emphasized the importance of this sale for maritime history enthusiasts. ” It illustrates the enduring fascination with the Titanic,” he said.

Continued strong demand

The previous record for a Titanic object was another watch, belonging to John Jacob Astor IV, which sold for 1.4 million euros. These record sales demonstrate the growing interest in rare artifacts linked to this tragic event.

Captain Rostron’s heroism will always be remembered. By diverting the Carpathia to the site of the wreck, he saved hundreds of lives, an act commemorated by this watch which has now become a historic symbol.

For collectors and enthusiasts of Titanic history, these objects are a reminder not only of the tragedy, but also of the acts of bravery that emerged from it. A watch, certainly precious, but above all priceless for its heritage.

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