A wristwatch that was melted by the atomic blast in Hiroshima is set to be auctioned, marking a poignant reminder of the catastrophic event that changed history. The timepiece, which was recovered by a British soldier, has its hands frozen at 8:15 AM, the exact moment the atomic bomb, dubbed ‘Little Boy,’ was dropped by the B-29 Enola Gay on August 6, 1945.

The watch was found amidst the ruins of the devastated city, specifically at the Prefectural Promotion Hall in Hiroshima. Its melted and scorched form serves as a haunting testament to the human tragedy that ensued. RR Auction, a Boston-based auction house, has estimated the value of this significant historical artifact at around £16k ($20k).

The decision to auction this wristwatch was inspired by the recent film Oppenheimer, highlighting the impact of the atomic bomb and the importance of remembering the lessons from history. Bobby Livingston, Executive Vice President at RR Auction, emphasized that auctioning such artifacts goes beyond their physical value. It is about preserving and sharing the stories they carry to ensure the lessons of history are not forgotten.

This wristwatch is part of the Remarkable Rarities auction by RR Auction, which concludes on February 22. It represents a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in history, serving as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare and the importance of striving for peace.