A $90,000 Rolex stolen during a burglary in Auckland has been reunited with its owner after a police officer spent five months tracing the timepiece across New Zealand, Australia and Hong Kong.
According to a report by 1News, the watch was recovered when police raided the home of a “prolific burglar” in late 2023, according to police’s One Ten Magazine. It was later placed in the police exhibits store.
While reviewing property held at the North Shore frontline station, officer Lisa Clark came across the Rolex and decided to track down its rightful owner.
Unable to find information about the watch in burglary reports, Clark began contacting Rolex dealers, service centres and retailers in New Zealand and overseas, 1News has reported.
The search eventually extended to Australia and Hong Kong.
“Everywhere I went, doors kept getting shut in my face,” Clark said.
“But I couldn't let it go. I knew there was someone out there who deserved to have this watch back, so I just kept following every lead I could,” as quoted by 1News.
After five months of searching, Clark identified the owner as Matt Kim, who was living in Australia. The Rolex had been one of the first gifts Kim had given his wife.
Kim's family home on Auckland's North Shore was burgled in August 2023, leaving the family “deeply shaken” and prompting them to leave New Zealand, 1News has reported.
When Kim learned that his watch had been recovered, he said he would, “get on a plane right now and come and get it”.
Several designer bags and a diamond ring belonging to his wife were also recovered and returned to the family.
Clark said Kim became emotional when he arrived to collect the belongings.
“You could feel that emotion and relief. Three years after the burglary, they never thought they'd see any of it again,” as quoted by 1News.
After returning to Sydney, Kim sent Clark a message expressing his gratitude.
“What you have done for us means so much more than I can explain.
“My family and I will never forget you and what you did for us. You really are our hero,” 1News has quoted.
For Clark, the outcome made the lengthy search worthwhile.
“I always knew it was there and I kept thinking, 'How can I find the owner? How can I find the owner?'”, as quoted by 1News.
Detective Sergeant Beth Bates praised Clark for her determination and initiative.
“Lisa's perseverance, initiative and commitment to doing the right thing resulted in a fantastic outcome for this family, as quoted by 1News.
“She went above and beyond to track down the rightful owner, and her determination is a great example of the lengths our people will go to support victims and make a difference,” 1News has quoted.
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