LONDON, United Kingdom – A stunning 18-carat gold pocket watch, gifted to Captain Arthur Rostron for his extraordinary role in rescuing survivors of the Titanic disaster, has just made headlines by fetching an astonishing price of nearly $2 million at auction.

This remarkable sale underscores the enduring fascination with the Titanic saga and the high value of its artifacts.

The exquisite timepiece, crafted by Tiffany & Co., was presented to Rostron by three women who survived the tragic sinking of the Titanic when it struck an iceberg during its maiden voyage in April 1912.

Rostron was the captain of the RMS Carpathia, which heroically diverted its course to save over 700 individuals stranded in the icy waters of the North Atlantic after the Titanic sank, claiming more than 1,500 lives.

Auctioneer Henry Aldridge and Son confirmed that the final sale price reached 1.56 million British pounds (approximately $1.96 million), making it the highest amount ever paid for a piece of Titanic memorabilia.

This price includes all applicable taxes and fees paid by the anonymous buyer in the United States.

Notably, the watch was presented to Rostron by notable figures, including the widow of John Jacob Astor, the wealthiest victim of the tragedy, alongside two other widows of prominent businessmen who perished with the ship.

This powerful token of gratitude is further emphasized by the inscription on the watch, which reads, “with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors.

Andrew Aldridge, the auctioneer, highlighted how the recent sales demonstrate a vibrant interest in Titanic artifacts, bringing attention to the rich, poignant stories surrounding them.

He stated, “Every man, woman and child had a story to tell, and those stories resonate even a century later through memorabilia.

On the night of the disaster, Rostron's swift decision-making saved many lives after he received a distress call from the Titanic's radio operator.

Despite the perilous conditions and icebergs in the water, he navigated the Carpathia at full speed toward the disaster site.

Upon arrival, he and his crew carefully located 20 lifeboats, successfully rescuing over 700 passengers, an act of bravery that would etch his name as a hero in maritime history.

Rostron was later honored by the U.S. Congress with the Congressional Gold Medal and knighted by King George V in recognition of his valor.

The presentation of the watch took place during a special luncheon at the New York mansion of Madeleine Astor, who had been rescued along with other survivors.

Interestingly, this recent auction record comes just months after a pocket watch belonging to Astor, which was recovered from the wreck, had previously set a record, selling for nearly $1.5 million in April from the same auction house.

This monumental sale not only commemorates Rostron’s heroism but also revives public interest in the tragic legacy of the Titanic, reminding us of the human stories interwoven with this historical event.

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