POLICE are trying to reunite an historic timepiece with its owner after it turned up in North Yorkshire.

The Rolex pocket watch is believed to have been issued by the armed services in the 1940s, probably during the Second World War and was found in a rural lane in Scarborough.

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Sgt Elaine Malcolm said: “This little piece of history is likely to hold great sentimental value. We need to reunite it with its owner.

"It’s kept time on some of the most important events of the 20th Century. And now police are seeking the owner of this 1940s military pocket watch after it was found in a rural lane in Scarborough.

"Despite being around 80 years old, it’s in excellent condition and has clearly been well cared for.

“It’s potentially been by someone’s side during some of the biggest dates of the 20th Century, including the end of World War II, the first man on the moon and the fall of the Berlin Wall.

“How it ended up in a country lane in Scarborough is a mystery.

“But we’re glad someone did the right thing and handed it in, and we’ve already begun enquiries to find out more about it and try to trace the owner.”

York Press: The Rolex pocket watch is believed to have been issued by the armed services in the 1940s, probably during the Second World War and was found in a rural lane in ScarboroughThe Rolex pocket watch is believed to have been issued by the armed services in the 1940s, probably during the Second World War and was found in a rural lane in Scarborough (Image: Supplied)

Officers are urging anyone who has owned a similar pocket watch to check its whereabouts. They are asking anyone who recognises it or has any information to come forward.

To claim it, proof of ownership will be required. Police will ask a series of questions to ensure it is returned to the rightful owner, including confirmation of the serial number on the front and rear which has been removed in these images for security reasons.

If you know who it belongs to, please email Sergeant Elaine Malcolm at elaine.malcolm@northyorkshire.police.uk or contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and select option 1, providing reference 12240011019.