In a heartwarming episode of Antiques Roadshow, a Vietnam War veteran who served in the Air Force got the surprise of a lifetime when he learned the true value of a watch he bought decades ago for $345.97. The watch in question is the Rolex Daytona with a Panda Paul Newman dial, a watch that shocked onlookers and experts alike.
Timeless surprise: Vietnam veteran’s Rolex watch goes for $700,000 at Antiques Roadshow (PictureFolder/Twitter)(Twitter)
The remarkable history of the watch adds to its value. It was acquired by mail through a military base exchange in 1974 and received in 1975. Amazingly, its date stamp shows it was manufactured in the first quarter of 1971 and has never been worn.
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The owner took good care of the watch to avoid the risk of wear and tear and eventually moving on to other watches. It was kept in a safe for years, only occasionally brought out. The conservation story is nothing short of remarkable.
What sets this Rolex Daytona apart is its comprehensive collection of authentication documents and paperwork, which includes the original box and outer packaging. Interestingly, the foil label with reference number 6263 is still affixed to the case back due to its pristine, unworn condition.
Paul Newman Daytona enthusiasts often consider this model the ultimate milestone, despite not being the most authentic (that distinction goes to the steel-bezeled, screw-down pusherless ref. 6239, known as the “Oyster”).
When they were filming this feature, it became obvious to the show team that they had something extraordinary on their hands. However, it seems that the owner of the watch was unaware of its true value.
When expert Peter Planes of Luxe Auctioneers in Palm Beach, Florida initially estimated the value of the watch at around $400,000, the veteran’s reaction was one of sheer disbelief – he literally fell to the ground in shock.
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It took him a few moments to compose himself, and when Planes explained that, due to its unworn condition, the Rolex was valued at between $500,000 and $700,000, the veteran’s response was filled with joy and excitement, saying, “You’ve got to be kidding me!” and ‘it goes on to say ‘amazing’. The appraiser then says, ‘but you can’t wear that’
In conclusion, this extraordinary discovery on the Antiques Roadshow serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden treasures that can appear unexpectedly, demonstrating the timeless appeal and enduring value of vintage watches.
This touching moment will undoubtedly be appreciated not only by veterans but also by viewers who appreciate the beauty of life’s unexpected surprises.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn