An iconic Rolex timepiece owned by a British prisoner of war has recently been put up for auction. The Rolex Oyster 3525 Chronograph was worn by Flight Lieutenant Gerald Imeson, one of the inspirational figures behind the phenomenally successful 1963 film The Great Escape, and is anticipated to sell for a possible £30,000. This manual wind chronograph was a favourite among personnel during the Second World War, as its premier strength, abundant water resistance and revolutionary Valjoux calibre 23 movement made it an ideal wristwatch for such a demanding working environment.
During the war years, the prestige of the Rolex brand name led to many military officers making use of their timepieces in preference to their standard issue models. This special relationship was cemented when Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex, allowed all British officers within prisoner of war camps to replace any stolen watches with a new Rolex model; on condition that they repaid the firm following their eventual release. Such confiscations were common, as many camp officials suspected that compasses could be hidden within the casing of a military watch. An estimated 3,000 Rolex watches were distributed in this fashion; a morale raising practice which also signified that Wilsdorf did not believe that the Nazis would ultimately win the conflict.
Mr Imeson acquired his Rolex timepiece in 1942, and proudly wore the chronograph as he took part in a daring, and ultimately unsuccessful break out attempt from the Stalag Luft III camp in 1944. Almost all of the escapees were caught, and two thirds of these men were tragically executed in the ensuing repercussions. Mr Imeson was among those who never had the opportunity to flee before the undertaking was discovered, and thus he returned to Britain in 1947 as a hero. He subsequently paid Rolex for his long serving timepiece, and he was to treasure this wristwatch until his death in 2003. It is now to be sold at the Bourne End Auction Rooms in order to benefit his family, according to one of his last wishes, and this significant chronograph is expected to sell far in excess of its estimated value.
The interest generated by this Rolex timepiece holds a twofold significance. Firstly, it displays the seemingly unending appeal that Rolex watches continue to command even in the modern world. Rolex is estimated to produce as many as 2,000 watches on a daily basis, and these revered timepieces are inevitably in high demand, whether they are first hand or second hand watches. Secondly, is also conveys the importance of the history that can become attached to Swiss luxury wristwatches. The unparalleled lifespan of a high-end watch allows them to be a constant companion throughout their owner’s life, as so it is little wonder that so many of these timepieces become entwined with such a variety of historical significances.
At Banks Lyon, we are proud to offer a broad range of watches manufactured by Rolex, and we have been doing so for many years. Our stock includes all of the latest issue wristwatches, and also a selection of previously owned watches for sale. To keep up to date with all of the latest news relating to our constantly evolving collection of luxury timepieces, please visit our Facebook and Twitter pages for more information.
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