A Cartier watch belonging to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis has sold for $379,000 at Christie’s, up 215.8% on a $120,000 estimate.
Jacqueline was gifted the watch by her brother in law Prince Stanislaw Radziwill in February 1963.
It commemorates his completion of a 50 mile walk along Florida’s Sunshine State Highway.
Jacqueline Kennedy supported her brother-in-law on a 50 mile walk
Early on his presidency, JFK introduced a number of public health initiatives. One was to challenge members of the public to walk 50 miles in under 20 hours.
The so-called “Kennedy March” became something of a craze – even catching on in other countries.
Radziwill completed the walk alongside family friend Chuck Spalding in 19 hours and 30 minutes.
Jacqueline came out to encourage them en route.
In gratitude Radziwill presented her with this watch.
The reverse of the case is inscribed: "Stas to Jackie 23 Feb. 63 2:05 am to 9:35 pm."
The lot also included a painting by Jacqueline showing the two men on their walk.
John Reardon, international head of watches at Christie’s, said: "The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Cartier Tank is a watch full of emotion, love and history.
"Together with Jackie’s painting, these two objects capture the spirit of another era, a time where friendship and the 'can-do' optimism of the generation seemed to make anything possible.”
We have a great selection of Kennedy memorabilia for sale in our store.
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