Rolex watch worn by Apollo 14 astronaut during moon mission fetches record $2.2 million at auction

Apollo 14 lunar module pilot Edgar Mitchell wore his personal Rolex GMT-Master chronometer under the sleeve of his spacesuit, as can be seen in this film still taken as he was donning the pressurized garment for launch on Jan. 31, 1971. (Image credit: NASA/RR Auction)

In a historic auction event, a Rolex watch that accompanied astronaut Edgar Mitchell on his Apollo 14 mission has set a new record for astronaut timepieces sold at auction. The Rolex GMT-Master chronometer, which was part of Mitchell's personal collection, fetched an impressive $2.2 million, making it the most expensive astronaut-related watch ever sold.

Historic Timepiece: Rolex Watch Worn by Apollo 14 Astronaut Fetches Record $2.2 Million at Auction

The Rolex GMT-Master was not just any watch; it was a timepiece that had been to the moon. Worn by astronaut Edgar Mitchell during the Apollo 14 mission in 1971, this watch holds significant historical value. The mission was the third successful lunar landing by NASA, and Mitchell was the sixth person to walk on the moon. His Rolex accompanied him throughout this landmark journey, adding to its allure and value.

The Auction and Its Record-Breaking Outcome

The auction, which saw the Rolex GMT-Master sell for $2.2 million, took place at Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, a renowned auction house known for its prestigious watch sales. The watch's sale surpassed previous records for astronaut-related timepieces, highlighting the enduring appeal of space exploration memorabilia.

A Legacy of Space Exploration

Edgar Mitchell's Rolex GMT-Master is more than just a luxury accessory; it represents a tangible connection to one of humanity's greatest achievements—landing on the moon. The watch's record-breaking sale underscores the continued fascination with the Apollo missions and the pioneering spirit of the astronauts who participated in them.