Ethiopian emperor’s watch sold to unknown buyer in Geneva

Menelik II of Ethiopia GENEVA — A rare historical pocket watch made for an Ethiopian emperor Menelik II has sold to an unknown buyer for £30,000 at an auction in Geneva, Switzerland.

The historically important clock — which is known as ‘The Negus Watch’ and is made from 18K yellow gold — was a gift from Emperor Menelik II to Léon Chefneux in recognition of his contribution to building Ethiopia’s first railway line.

It is thought the watch was probably presented as a welcome gift before the commercial agreement was signed between the emperor and the railway designer.

Menelik pocket watch The watch stands for progress, innovation and modernity and has remained in the same family for over 100 years.

It has a white enamel dial and is paved with rubies and diamonds.

This was the first time it had appeared at auction and it was sold with its presentation case and the original First Class Geneva Observatory Certificate.