A Mickey Mouse watch sold for $2,400 last week (February 3) at an auction in Dallas, Texas.

This might sound like a crazy amount to pay for a watch decorated with a Walt Disney cartoon character. The timepiece is by Swiss designer Charles Gérald Genta, which goes some way to explaining its value.

And the watch's 'fantasy retro style' obviously appealed to the collector who paid $2,400 for it.

Charles Gérald Genta's collectible Mickey Mouse watch

But, it must be said, if you're on the lookout for authentic Disney memorabilia, we think that you can do a lot better.

The buyer of the $2,400 watch perhaps didn't realise that you can buy genuine Walt Disney collectibles with a more direct link to the legendary film producer's legacy...  

Pieces like this Walt Disney autographed picture of Mickey Mouse. This photo-quality print of Mickey Mouse features a dedicated note, written by Walt himself.

Walt Disney’s autograph on a picture of Mickey Mouse – for sale here

Needless to say, Disney autographs are exceptionally rare. This example is for sale at Paul Fraser Collectibles priced at £2,950.

Also popular among collectors are the variety of annuals and special books that Disney has issued over the years. Like this classic example from 1982, a first printing of Walt Disney's World of Fantasy.

Disney animators and voice actors autographs and drawings – for sale here

This copy is even more remarkable because it bears the autographs of the people who made the magic happen: Disney's legendary animators and voice actors.

Our signed Walt Disney's World of Fantasy books is priced at £1,950.00 - you can find out more about it here.

Or click here to view all of our rare and exclusive Walt Disney memorabilia for sale.