AuctionsApr 12, 2022
Betty White’s Wedding Ring Can Be YoursAuctionsAug 03, 2022
Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker’s ‘Lost’ Jewelry Coming to Auction
The sale includes pieces “The King” gifted to his longtime manager, as well as jewelry Elvis owned and wore on stage.
PHOTO Colonel Tom Parker’s 18-karat yellow gold Omega Constellation is one of the pieces up for auction later this month at “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” sale. Parker was the singer’s longtime manager. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
PHOTO Gifted to Parker by “The Little Colonel” in 1971, the watch marks a significant time in Elvis’ career, as he was touring and had begun his legendary residency at the Hilton in Las Vegas. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Los Angeles—Jewelry belonging to “the man who made Elvis Presley”—Colonel Tom Parker—that was believed to be lost for decades is coming to auction.
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Colonel Tom Parker’s Vacheron Constantin watch from Julian and Jean Aberbach has a 14-karat gold case and a gold-filled stainless steel stretch bracelet. The dial reads “Vacheron & Constantin,” indicating the watch was made before 1970, when the company dropped the “&.” (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The caseback of Parker’s Vacheron watch is inscribed “With love from Julian and Jean.” Minimum bid on the watch is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Elvis Presley bought Parker these custom snowman cufflinks at the Bernard Hurtig boutique in Honolulu, Hawaii. Minimum bid on the pair is $2,500. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
New York jeweler Danker & Sons made the bell medallion Elvis and Priscilla Presley gave to Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for the couple’s anniversary. Minimum bid is $1,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Danker & Sons name can be seen at the top of the pendant and its maker’s mark at the bottom. Priscilla is said to have personally had this piece engraved. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Hotel magnate Barron Hilton gave this 14-karat yellow gold ring with colored gemstones and diamonds (0.75 total carat weight) to Parker as a thank you for booking Elvis to perform in Las Vegas in the late ‘60s and ‘1970s, a residency that continues to shape Las Vegas entertainment today. The Hilton logo is featured at center and “COL” is engraved on the band. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The auction also includes pieces of Elvis’ personal jewelry, like this 18-karat gold and diamond musical note/record ring with what is described as a “blue stone.” Minimum bid is $15,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Another piece in the auction commemorates one of The King’s later successes, 1973’s “Elvis, Aloha From Hawaii,” the first live performance ever telecast worldwide.
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
Related stories will be right here …
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
“This collection has been sought after by collectors and auction houses worldwide for decades and it was believed to be lost. When we were chosen to represent it, we immediately contacted Priscilla Presley who graciously reminisced about the moments each piece of jewelry represents,” said Brigitte Kruse, founder and CEO of Kruse GWS Auctions.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
Based in Los Angeles, Kruse GWS Auctions specializes in Hollywood memorabilia, as well as fine jewelry and watches, royal artifacts and more.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
More on Auctions
The Latest
MajorsJul 21, 2025
Rio Grande Expands Personalization OfferingsAs demand for custom jewelry grows, the company is expanding its services to support retailers.
Events & AwardsJul 21, 2025
NAJA’s 2025 ‘Ace It’ Conference To Go VirtualThe mid-year conference for jewelry and watch appraisers is slated for Aug. 9 to 10 on Zoom.
TrendsJul 21, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: Graduated With Honors Graduated stones make for elevated tennis-style pieces and dramatic statement necklaces.
Brought to you by
Taking the Moment Head On: How Rio Grande Champions the Present & Future of Fine JewelryAs a leading global jewelry supplier, Rio Grande is rapidly expanding and developing new solutions to meet the needs of jewelers worldwide.
Events & AwardsJul 21, 2025
Gem Awards Now Accepting Nominations for 2026Nominations in the categories of Jewelry Design, Media Excellence, and Retail Innovation will be accepted through July 30.
Weekly QuizJul 17, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
MajorsJul 18, 2025
Lewis Heyman on Sourcing Gemstones, Post-Retirement PlansHe retired last month after 28 years traveling the world to source the very best gemstones for his family’s jewelry business, Oscar Heyman.
TrendsJul 18, 2025
Piece of the Week: CCWW Designs’ Shell Charm NecklaceThe charm necklace features six nautical charms of shells and coral that founder Christina Puchi collected on Florida’s beaches.
Brought to you by
Investing in the Next Generation of Bench JewelersThe Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.
MajorsJul 18, 2025
Plumb Club Elects New Board MembersThe organization elected its youngest vice president as it looks to draw in fresh talent.
TechnologyJul 18, 2025
Brad Campbell, John Liebler Join Clientbook’s Executive Team Campbell joins the company as vice president of business development while Liebler is the new vice president of operations.
CollectionsJul 17, 2025
2026 Winter Olympic Medal Design Symbolizes UnityThe medals feature a split-texture design highlighting the Games’ first time being hosted by two cities and the athletes’ journeys.
Supplier BulletinJul 17, 2025
The INSTORE Jewelry Show 2025: Your Holiday Preparations, All Wrapped Up! Sponsored by The INSTORE Jewelry Show 2025
SurveysJul 17, 2025
The Most Recommended Brands in the World, According to YouGovGlobally, travel and transportation brands reigned, while in the U.S., alcoholic beverage companies and a lingerie brand took the top spots.
IndependentsJul 17, 2025
Gina Ferranti of GiGi Ferranti Jewelry Dies at 59The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer is remembered as a true artist and a rare talent.
SourcingJul 17, 2025
Rio Tinto Names New CEO, Production Rises at DiavikProduction at the mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories topped 1 million carats in Q2, the third consecutive quarter of growth.
Events & AwardsJul 17, 2025
JA to Hold Learning Workshops This FallA new slate of Learning Workshops will take place in Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Georgia.
SurveysJul 16, 2025
Signet Jewelers Falls Lower on NRF’s ‘Top 100’ Retailers ListThe middle class is changing its approach to buying jewelry and affordable luxury goods, the NRF said.
FinancialsJul 16, 2025
Richemont’s Jewelry Sales Up 7% in Q1It marks the third consecutive quarter of growth for Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier.
WatchesJul 16, 2025
The Top-Selling Rolex Models of the Last 15 Years, According to Bob’s Watches The reseller’s market trends report, based on its sales data, also shows exactly how much Rolex prices have jumped since 2010.
IndependentsJul 16, 2025
Clyde Duneier Ushers In Fourth GenerationJake Duneier and Danielle Duneier-Goldberg have stepped into the roles of CEO and president, respectively.
CollectionsJul 15, 2025
Boucheron’s New High Jewelry Calls Attention to Nature’s ImpermanenceThe “Impermanence” collection contemplates nature through the Japanese art of Ikebana (flower arranging) and philosophy of wabi-sabi.
MajorsJul 15, 2025
James Avery Expands to 2 More StatesThe Texas-based jewelry retailer has set up shop in Tennessee and Arizona.
Events & AwardsJul 15, 2025
Neiman Marcus Vet Joins Couture as Brand Director Eric Ford will step into the role, bringing with him decades of experience.
MajorsJul 15, 2025
Ben Bridge Jeweler Acquires Olympic ManufacturingIn addition to improved capabilities, the acquisition will allow the jeweler to offer support to other independent jewelers.
CollectionsJul 15, 2025
Guzema Debuts First Colored Gemstone JewelryThe “Celestial Blue” capsule collection campaign features Olympian Kateryna Sadurska.
MajorsJul 14, 2025
Nanis Opens First StoreThe seasonal store, located in Mykonos, Greece, offers exclusive events, personal styling, and curated experiences.
IndependentsJul 14, 2025
It’s the Summer of Love at Long’s JewelersThe New England jeweler is hosting a bridal event for the month of August.
