The Bob’s Watches ‘Fresh Finds’ auction ended successfully with all 16 vintage Rolex watches finding new owners. These watches, acquired directly from their original owners, were put up for public sale for the first time ever.
The auction raked in a total of over $600,100 with all lots sold, and there were no additional buyer’s premiums involved, meaning the final sale prices were what the buyers paid. Each of the watches featured in the auction had significant historical value, drawing interest from collectors worldwide.
A total of 3,608 bidders from 79 countries participated in the auction, showing strong competition. The vintage Rolex Submariner ref. 5512 from 1967 received 39 bids and sold for $22,800. The Rolex Explorer II ‘Steve McQueen’ ref. 1655, sporting a rare ‘rail dial,’ received 26 bids and sold for $22,500.
The star of the show was the Rolex ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona ref. 6241, previously discovered in a thrift store couch, which fetched $191,000. Following closely was the ‘small-crown’ vintage Rolex Submariner ref. 6536, selling for $51,600.
Buying a vintage watch directly from its original owner ensures authenticity and originality, minimizing the risk of alterations or restorations. As the demand for all-original vintage timepieces rises, these “fresh to market” watches become increasingly rare and valuable.
Bob’s Watches, a top online retailer of luxury pre-owned timepieces, sources its inventory mainly from the public, offering vintage watches to the public for the first time since their initial sale decades ago.
The ‘Fresh Finds’ auctions will continue to showcase exceptional vintage timepieces in their original condition, highlighting their historical significance. Stay tuned for future ‘Fresh Finds’ auction announcements.
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