Editor’s Note
This article details a public auction of 148 lots of high-end jewelry and watches seized from drug traffickers, offering a rare glimpse into the lavish tastes funded by illicit trade. The proceeds will support national anti-drug initiatives.
Confiscated Assets AuctionThe National Drug Plan has launched a public auction of high-end jewelry, costume jewelry, and watches seized from drug trafficking, comprising a total of 148 lots.
What kind of jewelry do drug traffickers buy? What watches do they wear? What are their tastes? Judging by the assets confiscated by state security forces—without knowing exactly who owned them, whether a powerful kingpin or a simple street dealer—certain details stand out. The former, with more resources, prefer good, expensive, and flashy pieces; the latter also like items that stand out, though not to the same level. In other words: more shine than carats. Life itself.
1. Rolex Daytona in Rose Gold and Rubber
Starting Price: €18,501
Market Price: €64,000 (used)
Rose gold and rubber Rolex Daytona watch with ceramic bezel. Model 116515. Good condition of strap and case. Normal operation.
2. Steel Rolex Submariner
Starting Price: €9,400
Market Price: €20,000 (used)
Steel Rolex Submariner with green ceramic “Hulk” bezel. Model 116610, caliber 3135. Normal operation, good overall condition. Bracelet missing two links.
3. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
Starting Price: €9,200
Market Price: €23,000 (used)
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore in steel and rubber, black dial, automatic, 300M water resistance. Model J00557. Movement 3120. Good condition and operation.
Until this Thursday, interested readers can check them out directly and even acquire these items if they win the auction. The Ministry of Health, through the Government Delegation for the National Drug Plan (DGPNSD), has launched a public electronic auction of jewelry, costume jewelry, and high-end watches seized from drug trafficking, comprising a total of 148 lots. These include 23 lots of high jewelry, 33 luxury watches, and 92 lots of jewelry and costume jewelry.
Among the most notable pieces are a gold chain weighing almost half a kilo and a “cordón salomónico” (Solomonic cord) of the same material. Also featured are watches from exclusive brands like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Vampire, the Rolex Daytona in rose gold and rubber, and a steel and rose gold Rolex Datejust with a pink dial set with diamonds. Each lot has been previously appraised by professionals specialized in gemology and diamonds.
4. White Gold Necklace with Diamonds
Auction Process and ProceedsThose wishing to participate in the online auction, open until December 4th, must deposit the required guarantee before bidding to ensure the proper development of the process. If they do not win, it will be returned at the end of the auction. This lot has a commission of 17.30% and its corresponding applicable VAT, which is added to the final bid price.
Historically, the Fund’s income has been distributed approximately as follows: 67% for demand reduction programs (such as prevention and assistance) and 43% for supply reduction (crime prosecution, police, and customs actions). In 2025, more than €28 million from the Fund were allocated for these purposes, explain sources from the Ministry of Health.