Rare Omega watch sells for £25,000
BIDDERS from across the globe battled to buy a rare military wristwatch found in Lichfield, with the hammer finally falling at an incredible £25,000.The Omega Seamaster 300 dating back to 1968 was identified by specialists at Richard Winterton Auctioneers during a routine valuation on behalf of a Lichfield client and was marketed in the online-only Antiques & Home Sale on Monday, October 19.
Auctioneer Richard Winterton said: “We knew this special timepiece really was one to watch as there was a huge amount of interest from people all over the world.
"With a number of online bidders and a client on the telephone, a brilliant bidding battle lasting almost eight minutes built up to a fantastic hammer price of £25,000 with the watch won by an internet bidder in Hong Kong.
"All stemming from a routine valuation in Lichfield – what a result and we are all delighted for our client.”
Watch the bidding battle for the Omega in this video on our Facebook page
The watch from Lichfield has the desirable 552 calibre and is engraved with British military markings on the case back adorning the broad arrow – the crow’s foot like mark of the British Army.
A missing bezel adds to the picture of a well-worn and much-loved timepiece which has given sterling service for decades.
“The dial design of the Seamaster 300 was changed in 1966 and these ‘sword hands’ and big triangle marker at the 12 position were introduced,” said Ben Winterton, watch specialist at Richard Winterton Auctioneers.
Free valuations of watches, jewellery and antiques of all kinds are available by appointment only at The Lichfield Auction Centre – telephone 01543 251081 or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk.
Specific jewellery valuations are offered on Tuesdays; for watch enquiries, email ben@richardwinterton.co.uk.
Watches and jewellery valuations are also available at The Hub at St Mary’s in the Market Square, Lichfield city centre, every Thursday.