Sherry Smith shares data on the year gone by, including the breakdown between natural and lab-grown diamond sales.
Marlon Brando’s ‘Godfather’ Rolex Breaks Record at Auction
A buyer made an offer on the Rolex Datejust that Kruse GWS Auctions couldn’t refuse.
![This Rolex Datejust was gifted to Marlon Brando after he won the Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Don Vito Corleone in “The Godfather.” 20190514_Rolex_header.jpg](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/513137ddb77584f35e735150774ca97a.jpg)
The “Archives of Hollywood & Music Auction” featured a 31 mm stainless steel Rolex Datejust given to Brando after he won the Oscar for Best Actor in 1973 for his portrayal of Don Vito Corleone in “The Godfather.”
![The watch sold for nearly $50,000 at the “Archives of Hollywood & Music Auction” in Los Angeles. The watch sold for nearly $50,000 at the “Archives of Hollywood & Music Auction” in Los Angeles.](/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBdXdZIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--9e7475379709e6ae3486ca9ed229324b8267fe1d/20190514_Rolex_insert.jpg)
It’s fitted with a black leather strap and the name “Vito” is engraved on the back, a nod to the iconic character.
The watch sold for $49,200, more than four times the original estimate of $10,000 to $12,000. It set the record for the most expensive stainless steel Rolex Datejust watch ever sold at auction, Kruse GWS Auctions said.
Brando held onto the watch for a few years before giving it his friend, Academy Award-nominated costume designer Patricia Norris.
The auction featured other Hollywood highlights, including the signed Elvis Presley Graceland purchase contract, which sold for $27,060, and the Catwoman costume worn by Michelle Pfeiffer in “Batman Returns,” which sold for $11,080.
The Brando-owned Rolex is the latest in a line of watches from the brand to exceed expectations and set records at auction. In fact, the title of most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction currently is held by a Rolex.
The Rolex Daytona that once belonged to Paul Newman (before the “Paul Newman Daytona” was a thing) sold for $17.8 million at Phillips in October 2017.
The Latest
![In addition to providing support services to jewelry businesses in L.A. County, Jewelers Mutual Group will match donations made to the Jewelers Relief Fund, the fund Jewelers of America and Diamond Council of America reopened in the wake of the devastating wildfires. Los Angeles wildfires](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/c9589b12f92fe1593e0c12cb02ffd438.jpg)
The company also is matching donations made to Jewelers of America and the Diamond Council of America’s Jewelers Relief Fund.
![Jewelers of America will have two “20 Under 40” lists this year, one for retailers and one for suppliers. Interested parties have from now through Feb. 19 to nominate themselves or someone else for inclusion on either list. Jewelers of America 20 Under 40 graphic](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/9c4f8cef6f42f5b6411b5f4f9c1d53c6.jpg)
Now in its fourth year, the program is expanding to include a list of “20 Under 40” for jewelry suppliers.
![Resolutions - 2025.jpg](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/7b2ba343f8d947757b0ff597db4ca873.jpg)
The new year feels like a clean slate, inspiring reflection, hope, and the motivation to become better versions of ourselves.
![Core retail sales during the holiday season rose 4 percent year-over-year to a record $994.1 billion, coming in above the National Retail Federation’s expectations. Holiday wrapped gift boxes](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/bbf0442a507fcab9157bafc8f6c6e13e.jpg)
Core retail sales during the 2024 holiday season surpassed the National Retail Federation’s forecast.
![](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/99a46b30cc354962ac2e29ecd113587a.jpg)
![Foundrae launched its “Reach for Life” collection on Tuesday; it’s a celebration of the new year, a time for self-reflection and growth. Foundrae Reach for Life collection campaign](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/0c1e7773bfc835fb4e17f5978364600f.jpg)
The “Reach for Life” collection uses feather and arrow motifs to invite growth and inner curiosity.
![Peter Smith is an industry consultant, speaker, sales trainer, and author. He can be reached via email at TheRetailSmiths@gmail.com. National Jeweler columnist Peter Smith](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/f435d49b335ed5e6c2719b958faac10a.jpg)
Peter Smith pulls back the curtain on the often misinterpreted, and sometimes maligned, world of sales training.
![ride_or_die_1872x1052.png](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/0fcf675b40ce0c88faab13d5914d2edf.png)
A Diamond is Forever hosted a holiday celebration in honor of their new marketing campaign, ‘Forever Present.’
![This Amanda’s Style File harnesses Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, across 20 pieces. Seen here is a ring by Lord Jewelry featuring brown and white diamonds ($9,500). Lord Jewelry brown and white diamond ring](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/7db87ddc50c55102c6fdbced25bcc106.jpg)
Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year takes the form of jewelry through gemstones and enamel that look just as delicious as mocha mousse.
![Jenna Blake is one of a number of Los Angeles-based designers pledging a percentage of sales to fire relief efforts in the Los Angeles area. Pictured are charms from the brand. Charms from designer Jenna Blake](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/9cfddd3e00afb38c7712321deb64e97b.jpg)
From raffles to auctions to donations, the industry is working to aid charities in Los Angeles amid the raging wildfires.
![Gemstone dealer and jewelry content creator Julia Hackman Chafé, and Monica Elias, founder of Elias World Media, have joined Diamonds Do Good’s board of directors. Diamonds Do Good](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/484d899ac51ab495b24e0bd3d9c42fb2.jpg)
Julia Hackman Chafé and Monica Elias have joined the organization’s board of directors.
![A pair of “Opera Galileo” pendants by Buccellati. Buccellati together with Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Vhernier comprise Richemont’s jewelry brand portfolio. The brands saw sales increase 14 percent year-over-year in the third quarter. Bucellati necklaces](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/a9d8876825bb7a6e09d9c2dba8990d32.jpg)
The company, which owns Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, had a record Q3, with sales topping $6 billion.
![Picchiotti Classic Blue and Green Necklace](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/47392cdabcf3f7bcb41194464aa9a925.jpg)
The necklace features a sapphire drop weighing more than 9 carats that detaches to transform into a ring.
![The winner of the inaugural Tiffany & Co. x CFDA Jewelry Designer Award, Jameel Mohammed, was presented with the award at a cocktail reception celebrating the finalists on Wednesday.
Jameel Mohammed](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/0bd0336178895003027d3b4d14b3f46a.jpg)
Jameel Mohammed, founder of Afrofuturist brand Khiry, will receive a cash prize and a one-year paid fellowship with Tiffany & Co.
![New England jeweler Lux Bond & Green is set to open its sixth location in Mystic, Connecticut. (Photo courtesy of Lux Bond & Green’s Facebook page) Gold jewelry boxes with Lux Bond & Green logo](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/1a8d662d0c26c6c62343028e5ce8560f.jpg)
The 127-year-old jeweler is planning to open a new store in Mystic, Connecticut.
![Timex’s new National Park Collection, a group of six outdoor watches celebrating green spaces from Maine to Wyoming, launched online today. Timex National Park Collection](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/405cab0a346373ea96c641f83bcf8554.jpg)
The watches’ dials feature artwork celebrating the vibrant energy and unique landscapes of six of America’s national parks.
![The theme for JCK Las Vegas 2025 is “Decades” as a celebration of jewelry and fashion styles from different eras throughout time, said Sarin Bachmann, group vice president for the RX Jewelry Portfolio. JCK open registration graphic](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/3213b39dacba6bf2b37a0385b9f8bca6.jpg)
The jewelry trade show returns to The Venetian Expo and The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas from June 6 to 9.
![“Unapologetically Iris: The Collection of Iris Apfel” showcases the clothes, accessories, and interior design elements that made Apfel famous. The auction includes more than 200 lots and is scheduled for Jan. 28- Feb. 13. (Photo credit: Ruven Afanador) Iris Apfel](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/a27de08e44a922d60a0c18efa8471408.jpg)
Associate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite fashion jewelry pieces from the upcoming “Unapologetically Iris” auction.
![Macy’s shared a list of the 66 locations it will close as part of its “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan. Macy’s Herald Square New York City store](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/3b551589648a923d096cd702c5be5321.jpg)
The closures are part of the retailer’s plan to close 150 locations over a three-year period.
![The Jewelers Vigilance Committee released a free online guide to help jewelers comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Jewelers Vigilance Committee Americans with Disabilities Act guide cover](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/b8e3b091c4b254cd0cb3320449913631.jpg)
The online guide is available for free and written with the jewelry industry in mind.
![Participants must submit design sketches or CAD renderings of pieces inspired by the 2025 theme, “Radiance,” by Feb. 28. Jose Hess Design Award Trophy](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/9ee06694890eb592919e3a8843bab750.jpg)
The awards honor the late Jose Hess, a founding member of AJDC and an award-winning jewelry designer.
![Susan Jacques, who has served as GIA's CEO and president for more than a decade, is retiring. Susan Jacques](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/1c755abca1d3ea28d88049f94325b072.jpg)
The grading lab said the search for her successor is underway.
![Jules Kim is a jewelry artist whose progressive vision and wide cultural aperture inform her unconventional approach to design, storytelling and community building. Jewelry designer and National Jeweler guest columnist Jules Kim](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/388b13454f1e4287b4df303829b76c67.jpg)
In this special op-ed, designer Jules Kim calls on big brands to collaborate with independent creators instead of copying their designs.
![Henry A. Hänni died, surrounded by his family, at his home in Basel, Switzerland, on Jan. 9. Henry A. Hänni](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/80f9f9bb1fa71c114446a1704a6eaf84.jpg)
A pioneering figure in gemology, he is remembered for his spirit of generosity, curiosity, and joy.
![A selection of rings available at Signet-owned banner Kay Jewelers. Signet Jewelers lowered its fourth-quarter guidance following lackluster holiday sales. Woman wearing rings on both hands](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/10fb962fed0ec5f88d2bcb03838ce992.jpg)
The peak selling days leading up to Christmas did not meet the jewelry retailer’s expectations.
![As Messika’s new chief brand officer, Edouard Schneider will oversee all communication and brand image activities for the company, including its subsidiaries in New York, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Dubai. (Image courtesy of Buonomo & Cometti) Edouard Schneider](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/997beb8e89943a0c3b1c250ff2ba3e3e.jpg)
Schneider brings over 20 years of luxury and fashion industry experience to his role as a key member of the brand’s global leadership team.
![The government of Zambia has reinstated a 15 percent export tax on precious gemstones, a move that came as a surprise to Gemfields. The London-based miner has said it plans to lobby against the change. Gemfields emeralds](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/011e7325b2bbe191d87bd428f67a99b1.jpg)
Gemfields said the Zambian government revoked the 2019 suspension of the tax with no warning.