A fragment of the history of the Titanic and its most fortunate passenger, John Jacob Astor IV, will be offered at an upcoming auction: it is his gold watch, worn during the tragic sinking.
A relic of inestimable historical value
John Jacob Astor IV was not only known for his great fortune, but also for his tragic fate aboard the Titanic, the transatlantic liner that sank in 1912 After hitting an iceberg. The gold watch that Astor carried with him emerges today, more than a century later, as a poignant symbol of this catastrophe.
- Origin of the piece: The watch was recovered from Astor’s personal belongings and has been fully restored to perfect function.
- Origin : After being given as a christening gift in 1935, it changed hands several times and was exhibited in numerous museums, seen by millions of people.
Auction Details
This iconic watch will be auctioned by Henry Aldridge & Son in Wiltshire, England, alongside other Astor personal items and Titanic artifacts. It is estimated to fetch a price of $100,000 to $150,000, reflecting both its material value and historical significance.
- Other objects: Other items up for sale include the suitcase containing the famous violin played during the sinking of the Titanic, as well as a wallet documenting the ship’s scheduled voyages.
- High expectation: These objects are highly anticipated by collectors and history buffs, and are expected to fetch significant prices.
Cultural impact and historical value
The sale will attract not only collectors but also those who are fascinated by the history of the Titanic and its passengers. This gold watch is not just a luxury item, but a piece of maritime and personal history of one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.
- Symbolism of the watch: Beyond its material value, the watch symbolizes the human tragedy and social history of the time.
- Astor’s legacy: Through this watch, the story of Astor and the Titanic remains alive, telling the tale of one of the most notorious maritime disasters through a personal object deeply connected to its time.
The auction of this watch and other Titanic items provides a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of history, inviting those interested to become part of the legend that continues to captivate millions around the world.
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