BBC timekeeper is one to watch in sale

A rare 1960s wristwatch chosen by the BBC for its great accuracy during live broadcasts will sell in a London auction this month.

Made by Lemania, the stainless steel manual chronograph was the ideal choice in the pre-digital age when programme staff and producers relied on strict timekeeping during live broadcasts. The watch has the BBC initials engraved to the back and the BBC inventory number 4269. It is expected to bring £1,500 – £2,500.

The specialist Watches sale includes a number of very special issues. Direct from a family member who worked with M15 is an extremely rare Breitling stainless steel automatic bracelet divers watch. The Superocean Steelfish from 2009 has the MI5 Security Service crest to the dial at the nine o’clock position and appropriate engraving to the case back. Made in a limited edition of just 900 pieces to mark 100 years since the creation of the Secret Service in 1909, it is guided at £2,000-£4,000 in the sale.

An 18 carat gold watch by Breguet is thought to be a unique piece made by the top-drawer Swiss brand 50 years ago. This manual watch with skeleton champagne hour ring and black numerals and hands was sent to Breguet to confirm its authenticity. The firm confirmed that the watch had been sold on November 29, 1972 in London for the price equivalent of 3,850 French francs. Complete with its original strap with gold Breguet buckle, it comes for sale with an estimate of £15,000-£20,000.

Elsewhere in the sale, a number 5 fountain pen by Edward Todd & Co. New York in an engine-turned gold case looks set to generate interest. Engraved for Thomas Griffin, Mayor of Kidderminster, 1925-1926, it was a presentation piece to Griffin who held the record for the longest member of the town council, having been first elected in 1896. The pen carries an estimate of £800-£1,000.

The sale takes place on March 22.