This May, Phillips will be auctioning a vintage Omega watch that once belonged to the King of Rock'n'Roll, Elvis Presley.
Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Phillips

No one can deny the impact that Elvis Presley had on American culture and the musical landscape. From the mid-1950s until his death, the King ruled the charts and helped shape what rock'n'roll and contemporary music are today.

Research suggests that it was on Christmas Day 1960 that Elvis reached the milestone of 75 million records sold, likely being the first ever artist to achieve such an incredible feat. RCA Records, the label that signed Elvis in 1955 and launched him to become a music phenomenon, celebrated this milestone with a celebratory charity event and concert on February 25, 1961, where they gifted Elvis with a special Omega watch.

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Phillips

The watch is in 18-karat white gold with the bezel set with 44 round brilliant diamonds. The dial is silver coloured with a small seconds subdial at six o'clock and the famed “Tiffany & Co.” retailer signature beneath “Omega” at 12 o’clock. The caseback of the watch is inscribed with “To Elvis, 75 Million Records, RCA Victor, 12-25-60.” 

See also: At US$17.7 Million, Paul Newman’s Rolex Is The Most Expensive Wristwatch Ever Sold

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Phillips

The provenance of the watch is quite charming, as the current owner's uncle once met Elvis and expressed his admiration for the watch. As the admirer was wearing a diamond-studded Hamilton watch that caught Elvis' eye, a trade was proposed and the two gentlemen exchanged timepieces. Elvis was well known for giving away watches that he purchased or received as gifts.

The watch will be sold with certificates of authenticity from the Elvis Presley Museum and a book titled “Elvis” by Dave Marsh, which includes images of Elvis himself wearing this watch.

Discover more at Phillips.com

See also: Tim Bourne Of Bonhams Shares 5 Tips For Collecting Vintage Watches

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