Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A rare Patek Philippe John Lennon watch, gifted by Yoko Ono to for his 40th birthday, will soon be returned after being stolen and traded for nearly 20 years. A Swiss court recently ruled that an Italian man who purchased the watch at an auction has no legal claim to the historic timepiece.
A Symbol of Love and Legacy
The 18-karat gold watch was presented to Lennon by Ono in 1980, two months before his tragic death. The timepiece bears a sentimental engraving that reads:
“(JUST LIKE) STARTING OVER LOVE YOKO 10·9·1980 N.Y.C.”
After Lennon’s death, the watch remained with Ono until 2006, when it was stolen by a Turkish chauffeur who falsely claimed he had Ono’s permission. The watch changed hands several times before being sold at a German auction in 2010 to an Italian collector living in China.
Legal Battle and Rediscovery
Ono only learned about John Lennon Watch disappearance in 2014 when a valuation firm in Geneva contacted her legal team about the item.
The Swiss court ruling, announced on November 14, 2024, declared the Italian buyer had no legal ownership. This decision follows earlier rulings in 2022 and 2023 from Geneva courts, reinforcing Ono’s rightful claim to the timepiece.
While the watch is currently held by the Italian collector’s lawyer in Geneva, the exact timeline for its return to Ono remains unclear.
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More Than Just a Watch
The watch, valued at 4 million Swiss francs (around $4.4 million), carries a significance far beyond its monetary worth. It represents a deep bond between Lennon and Ono and serves as a tangible piece of their love story.
For fans of The Beatles, the watch is a powerful symbol of Lennon’s legacy and the enduring connection between the iconic couple. Its eventual return to Ono marks a significant victory in preserving their shared history, reinforcing the emotional and historical importance of the timepiece.
(Becky)
