Pocket Watch Auctions Heat Up as Collectors Eye Historic Timepieces

The auction calendar is filling quickly with three notable pocket watch events, each drawing keen interest from enthusiasts worldwide. The earliest deadline falls on November 19, when Gardiner Houlgate will close its specialist sale. The catalogue spans pieces from the late through the early, featuring renowned American makers such as Elgin, Hamilton and Waltham. Buyers are especially eyeing a handful of pocket watches that illustrate the evolution of portable timekeeping, from ornate casework to streamlined industrial designs.

A few days later, on November 22, Henry Aldridge Auctioneers will wrap up a high‑profile sale anchored by a pocket watch recovered from a first‑class passenger of the ill‑fated ocean liner. The timepiece, noted for its intricate engraving and historic provenance, is expected to command a top price in the six‑figure range. Its presence underscores a growing trend: collectors are willing to pay premium amounts for items that combine mechanical excellence with a compelling backstory.

Following those two deadlines, Black and Gold Auctions will host its Timeless Treasures Pocket Watch Auction. While the exact closing date has not been disclosed, the event is slated after the November sales and will showcase a curated selection of classic American manufacturers, including rare examples from the early industrial era. Organizers highlight the diversity of case styles—from pocket‑sized regulators to pocket chronographs—offering a broad spectrum for both seasoned collectors and newcomers.

Looking ahead, Gardiner Houlgate has already announced a follow‑up pocket watch sale scheduled for early next year, positioned just one day after its next major wrist‑focused auction. This back‑to‑back scheduling signals a strategic push to capture momentum from the current wave of interest. Across all three events, the common thread is a renewed appetite for historically significant pocket watches, driven by their blend of craftsmanship, narrative depth and the allure of owning a portable slice of horological heritage.

Based on 3 digest summaries · Generated November 12, 2025

Titanic Memorabilia, Collector's Items & Antiques

November 13, 2025 —

On November 22, 2025, Henry Aldridge Auctioneers will present a noteworthy auction featuring items from the esteemed Straus Collection. Highlights include a unique 18kt gold pocket watch recovered from Titanic first-class passenger Isidor Straus, with an estimated value of £800,000 to £1 million, and a rare letter written by Ida Straus aboard the RMS Titanic, estimated between £100,000 and £150,000. These items will be available for viewing at the world's largest Titanic museum in Pigeon Forge, USA. Additionally, entries are being invited for the December 12 and 13, 2025 auction of Jewellery, Silver, and Collectors Items, which will feature an 18th-century French gold snuff box, estimated at £4,000 to £6,000. For those interested in Titanic memorabilia and antiques, Henry Aldridge Auctioneers offers a rich selection of unique items. Readers are encouraged to check their website for future auction dates and details.

Black and Gold Auctions

October 30, 2025 —

Black and Gold Auctions will host several engaging auctions starting October 30, 2025. The Weekly Thursday Auction features a diverse selection, including five vehicles, gold and silver items, jewelry, quality furniture, original art, and coins. Bidding will take place at their location in Columbia, Missouri, with item pickup available on October 31 and November 1. Additionally, the Timeless Treasures Pocket Watch Auction offers a unique collection of vintage and antique timepieces from renowned brands such as Elgin, Hamilton, and Waltham. This auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Real estate enthusiasts can explore two properties: a four-bedroom home at 1208 London Drive, with an open house scheduled for November 4, and a two-bedroom timeshare at Lake of the Ozarks, featuring resort amenities. For more details on these auctions and future events, visit Black and Gold Auctions' website.

Gardiner Houlgate @GardHoulgate

October 30, 2025 —

Gardiner Houlgate will hold a specialist watch auction on November 19, 2025. This event will feature a diverse selection of vintage and modern wristwatches from renowned brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, and Jaeger LeCoultre, among others. The auction is expected to attract international interest, particularly for its well-represented pocket watches dating from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Following this, another watch auction focused on wristwatches is scheduled for February 24, 2026, with a pocket watch auction taking place the next day, February 25, 2026. For those interested in the world of antique and designer watches, Gardiner Houlgate offers a personal and efficient service, making it a premier destination for collectors and enthusiasts alike. For more details on upcoming auctions, please visit their website.

Find Estate Sales @estatesalesnet

November 13, 2025 —

Upcoming auctions at Find Estate Sales offer a diverse selection for collectors and enthusiasts. Notable events include the Antique Toy Auction in Ladenburg, Germany, starting on November 15, 2025, featuring a variety of vintage toys. Following that, the COLLECTIBLE GLASS Auction in Kamenne Zehrovice, Czech Republic, will commence on November 23, 2025, showcasing exquisite glass pieces. In addition, local auctions are ongoing, such as the Pocket Watches, Jewelry & Jewelry-Grade Gemstones Auction in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which runs until November 23, 2025. This auction features starting bids at $1 with no reserves, making it an attractive opportunity for jewelry lovers. For those interested in fine art, the California & American Fine Art Auction in Monrovia, California, is available until November 18, 2025. Readers are encouraged to explore these auctions and more by visiting Find Estate Sales for the latest updates and listings.