The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Rare Vintage Model Including Book And Defence Medal Watch is composed of a 28mm round shaped 9ct yellow gold case and black leather strap with a traditional buckle. It has a black analogue dial, which is protected beneath plastic glass. Power is generated by the automatic movement. This model is also splash resistant.
This rare Rolex watch belonged to a British Army lieutenant Charles Maurice Anthony (Tony) Whitaker, of Worcestershire.
He was captured inland during the Battle of Dunkirk in 1940 whilst holding a bridge for men retreating to the beaches. Tony was missing for a year, presumed dead by his family.
He was actually moved between several prisoner of war camps in Poland and Germany for the next five years - including Stalag Luft III and Oflag VII-B. Whilst held captive at Stalag Luft III, Whitaker made friends with a flight lieutenant, Eric Williams, who penned the book 'The Wooden Horse' which is signed and included with this watch.
Stalag Luft III is the same camp featured in the epic 1963 war film 'The Great Escape'.
It was at Oflag VII-B, a camp for officers in Bavaria, where Tony received the Rolex. Rolex and Hans Wilsdorf sent these watches to officers as a morale boost, who paid for them later on returning to Great Britain. It is believed that British soldiers had to request a watch by letter.
At the closing stages of the war when leaving the camp, Whitaker was injured in a friendly fire incident. He sustained a shrapnel wound in his leg and had to spend months after the war in hospital at the Isle of Wight.
This watch also comes with a signed copy of 'The Wooden Horse' by Eric Williams, a further book listing inmates from Oflag VII-B, a defence medal and two photos of Whitaker, including one with him wearing the Rolex. It is not confirmed whether the defence medal was awarded to Whitaker or another individual.
T H Baker are giving you the opportunity to purchase a prestigious Second Hand Rolex watch at an affordable price. The authenticity of our Second Hand Rolex collection is verified by industry experts, and comes complete with official Rolex presentation box, professionally refurbished to the highest possible quality and standard.
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