LONDON.- The single-owner collection of entrepreneur and businessman, the late Robert White, saw a rare, handmade British watch from bespoke horologist, George Daniels, soar to more than twice its estimate, achieving £224,500 – a world record price for the model.

The 35th Anniversary George Daniels watch took three years to design in conjunction with Roger Smith, and is one in an edition of just 35 ever made.

“This is one of the most outstanding watches I have ever had the privilege to handle,” said Jonathan Darracott, Bonhams’ Global Head of Watches. “The appearance at auction of a George Daniels’ watch is always an event, and it wasn’t surprising that we fielded bids for this exquisite piece from all around the world. We are delighted with the result.”

In total, the Robert White Collection Sale achieved an outstanding £3 million. Proceeds will be used to build new cancer facilities at Poole and Dorset County hospitals, benefiting patients across the whole of the country.

Bonhams Co-Chairman, Malcolm Barber, said: “The sale attracted bidders from all across the globe, seeing just shy of 100% sold, and £3 million achieved. As auctioneer of the sale, I’m delighted that after ten hours on the rostrum the sale has achieved such excellent results.”

The vast collection contained hundreds of exceptional and rare mechanical items, including motorcycles, motor cars, vintage Leica cameras, motoring mascots, Lalique, and several rare wristwatches.

Leading the auction was the 1930 Bentley 4½-Litre Le Mans-style Tourer, which sold to a European bidder in the room to achieve £315,100. Further motoring highlights include a 1959 AC Ace-Bristol Roadster, sold for £254,620; a 1951 Vincent 998cc Series C Black Shadow motorcycle, sold for £88,900; and a 1977 MV Agusta 861cc ‘Magni’, sold for £69,700.

Debbie Fleming, Chief Executive of Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re so grateful to Robert for his immense gift, which will be of benefit to patients for years to come.”

“Robert curated a fantastic collection, with beautiful items desired by collectors around the world, so it’s of no surprise that the sale has done so well,” said Ben Walker, Bonhams Head of Motorcycles and head of the auction.

Robert White (1953-2015) was the founder of one of the UK’s leading photographic retailers, having started in business with a small camera shop in Poole, where he was born.

An astute and dedicated businessman, Robert White’s success enabled him to indulge a passion for collecting machines and objects that embodied the finest design and engineering. He loved to ride motorcycles and drive fast cars. He learned to fly and bought a vintage Boeing-Stearman bi-plane to travel round Britain.

He was described by a close friend as: “A modest person who liked the best of what he liked, but was never one for designer clothes and frippery, leaves a legacy that will outlast all of us. The life of Robert will help countless people he has never met. Robert’s illness taught him what is important, and he was in a self-made position to make a life-changing difference.”