A VINTAGE 1950’s Rolex Oyster watch which was mysteriously donated to a charity shop has sold in a silent auction for £720 – eventually going to an Edinburgh resident who will surprise her husband with the very special gift on Christmas Day.
Says a Shelter Scotland spokesperson: “The classic timepiece, made famous by James Bond in Ian Fleming’s books, received 12 bids and as of Christmas Day will be sported on the streets of Scotland’s capital by the winning bidder’s lucky husband.
“The watch, with a pigskin leather strap, stainless steel body and bevelled glass face, was donated anonymously last month to Shelter Scotland’s Morningside shop in a bag of other items.
“Staff at the shop initially dismissed the luxury wristwatch as a replica, but after an independent valuation realised they had stumbled on to the real thing.”
Paul Knowles, manager of Shelter Scotland’s Morningside shop, said:
“We’re over the moon that the watch raised so much money and grateful to everyone who made a bid. We’re pleased that the watch is getting a new lease of life and hope the new owner is pleased with his very special Christmas present.
“Of course, the money raised is also a very welcome Christmas present for Shelter Scotland. Every penny will go towards helping people in Scotland find and keep a home.”
Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, added:
“Although we don’t know who donated the watch we would like to thank them for their generosity. We welcome all donations to our shops, no matter how big or small, and it’s always humbling to know that people want to help Shelter Scotland.
“Without this support we would not be able to deliver our vital services and campaign for the end of homelessness and bad housing.”
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Notes to Editors:
1. Shelter Scotland provides expert support services, online advice and a free national helpline for everyone facing housing and homelessness difficulties. For advice and support visit http://scotland.shelter.org.uk or call 0808 800 4444.
2. Spokespeople are available for interview – call the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line is available for broadcast interviews.
3. Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/shelterinscotland Twitter – http://twitter.com/shelterscotland
Shelter Scotland believes everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Shelter Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Sabina Kadic-Mackenzie
Phone: 0844 515 2442
Website: http://www.shelter.org.uk
