Jewellery and designer watches are highly sought after. Here, jewellery valuer Mel Lee-Patrick shares top-selling lots in July’s Bishton Jewellery, Silver and Watch Auction.
Diamond delight | Lot 50
Bidders loved this early 20th century oval cushion cut diamond solitaire ring with an estimated 1.00ct central stone. Diamond graded by an insurance valuation as being of I/J colour and SI 1 clarity. The central stone is eight-claw collet set, supported by shoulders set with four small eight cut diamonds down each side.
The ring came with an insurance valuation by Harrisons Jewellers of Bedfordshire and a type-written note from the vendor describing how the family believe it came into their possession through a relative who worked for the Bowes-Lyon family at their hunting lodge, Holwick Hall, in the 1960s. The family were told the ring was presented to their relative on her retirement by the Bowes-Lyon family. Size N. Gross approximate weight 3.2 grams. Hammer £3,000.
Murrle Bennett magic | Lot 67
This Murrle Bennett Art Nouveau turquoise and yellow metal pendant features a substantial turquoise cabochon held in place at the centre of the pendant with whiplash wirework and a further bezel-set turquoise drop. The piece is stamped with the Murrle Bennet makers mark and “15ct”.
Anglo-German company Murrle Bennett were early 20th century manufacturers of Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau jewellery, importing pieces which often took a lead from the fashionable styles produced by Liberty. Estimate £150-200. Hammer £420.
Vintage Rolex | Lot 127
The demand for designer watches continues to grow. This Vintage 1960s Rolex Explorer watch, on a Rolex stainless steel bracelet, came with its original guarantee and service papers but no box. It features a black dial with batons/Arabic numerals. Model number 5500. Calibre number 1530. Serial number 845623 which relates to 1962. Papers indicate the piece was purchased from Watches of Switzerland, Birmingham, on 25th May 1963. Estimate £3,000-4,000. Hammer £6,500.
Melissa Lee-Patrick FGA DGA, Hansons Staffordshire jewellery valuer, said: “We had a great sale which was a real treat for buyers who love significant and storied pieces. It proves that, even in constrained times, collectors are willing to go beyond our estimates to secure star items for themselves.
“The Rolex in particular had been tucked away and it wasn’t until the owner came down to one of our weekly valuation days that they had any idea of its true value.”
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Entries invited for monthly jewellery auctions at Bishton Hall, Staffordshire
