Over £200,000 worth of watches and jewellery stolen from Whittington home
Watches and jewellery worth more than £200,000 were stolen in a raid on a Shropshire home.
Nine watches, including Rolex and Cartier makes, valued at around £117,000, were among the items stolen in the daytime burglary at the home in Whittington, near Oswestry.
The burglars broke into the premises by forcing a back door between 12 noon and 4pm on Wednesday, March 27. They fled after being disturbed at around 3.30pm.
Police are appealing for information from dealers and auction houses who may be offered the stolen goods.
Detective Constable Mal Normandin said: “This was a high value burglary with expensive watches and gold jewellery targeted by the thieves. Their total value is around £213,000.
“Some of the items are quite distinctive and the offenders will almost certainly be seeking to sell them on. We are making extensive inquiries, including contacting likely customers, and urging anyone who is approached in dubious circumstances to contact the burglary unit at Shrewsbury police station by calling 0300 333 3000.”
The owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, has offered a £10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the offenders and full recovery of the property.
The highest priced items included a £42,000 man’s 18ct Rolex wrist watch with 224 diamonds set in the dial and 264 diamonds in the bracelet. The bracelet is numbered 8385.
A ladies Rolex watch valued at £35,000 has diamonds and red rubies set on the face with diamonds down the strap.
A gent’s Cartier 18ct gold watch, with a thin face and thin bracelet, is also covered in diamonds.
More than 40 items of jewellery were also taken including rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, chains, cufflinks and sovereign and Kruger Rand coins.
Most of the pieces are gold with some featuring precious stones, including diamonds, rubies and emeralds.
DC Normandin added: “We are appealing to anyone with information concerning the whereabouts of the watches and jewellery, to contact the police. We would also welcome any details about the identities of those involved. Information can be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111, for which a reward may be paid.
“We would urge people not to be tempted to buy jewellery or expensive watches in suspicious circumstances. They could end up being charged with receiving stolen goods.”
