Tiffany & Co. Acquires Historic Titanic Pocket Watch—Setting a Record Auction Price

The pocket watch, crafted by Tiffany & Co. in 1912, was a heartfelt gesture of gratitude from three Titanic survivors—Mrs. Madeleine Talmage Astor, Mrs. Marian Longstreth Thayer, and Mrs. Eleanor Elkins Widener—to Captain Arthur H. Rostron of the R.M.S. Carpathia. Captain Rostron led the heroic rescue of nearly 700 passengers following the Titanic’s devastating sinking on April 15, 1912.

According to records from The Tiffany Archives, the timepiece was purchased by Mrs. George D. Widener, one of the widows. Engraved with a touching inscription, the watch reads: “Presented to Captain Rostron with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors of the Titanic April 15th, 1912, Mrs. John B. Thayer, Mrs. John Jacob Astor, and Mrs. George D. Widener.” The caseback is adorned with the enameled monogram “AHR,” symbolizing the esteemed captain’s initials.

The watch was presented to Captain Rostron at an intimate luncheon hosted by Mrs. Astor in New York City. This significant event, which included fellow Titanic survivors, was widely reported in newspapers at the time.

Christopher Young, Vice President of Creative Visual Merchandising, Events, and The Tiffany Archives at Tiffany & Co., reflected on the acquisition: “Tiffany & Co. jewelry and objects have been a cornerstone of global luxury since the mid-nineteenth century. That Tiffany was entrusted to help give thanks in the wake of the unthinkable Titanic tragedy reminds us of our humble role in the lives of our clients. Captain Rostron’s pocket watch is an incredible expression of thanks and gratitude, and we are humbled to welcome this extraordinary treasure home to Tiffany & Co.”

Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge, Managing Director at Henry Aldridge and Son Ltd, highlighted the watch’s emotional and historical significance: “This watch is a testament to the bravery of Sir Arthur Rostron and the regard he was held in by the widows of three of the most influential men on the Titanic. The fact that Tiffany & Co. purchased the piece 112 years after selling it shows the circle being completed and it going home.”

The acquisition of this timepiece marks a powerful milestone in Tiffany & Co.’s horological legacy, which dates back to 1847. Renowned for its watches and clocks since the 19th century, Tiffany opened its own Geneva Manufacture in 1874, producing exceptional timepieces adorned with complications, engravings, and gemstones. Captain Rostron’s pocket watch is more than a relic of history—it symbolizes enduring gratitude, timeless bonds, and Tiffany & Co.’s ongoing commitment to restoring legacy.