Motorbikes it seems are the transport mode of choice for watch and jewellery thieves. Following recent incidents of motorbike raiders smashing the windows of two Fraser Hart jewellery stores, one in Brent Cross, and one in Kingston, we now have a number of vintage Rolex watches stolen after a motorbike duo targeted Ascot Goldsmiths in Ascot.

The robbery took place Friday at about 11.20am at the store on the town’s Course Road. Two men pulled up outside the store on a motorbike, smashed through the front window and grabbed a number of items before riding off.

Thames Valley Police said that the goods stolen included Rolex watches and jewellery including rings, gold chains and a diamond pendant. The police said they are now appealing for witnesses.

Detective Constable Teranjeet Finn of Maidenhead CID said: “The offenders have stolen a significant amount of jewellery, including rings, gold chains, a diamond pendant and Rolex watches.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area who has not yet spoken to police or anyone who saw people acting suspiciously before the incident. I would also be keen to hear from anyone who has been offered any suspiciously cheap jewellery.”

The same jeweller was knocked unconscious in his shop two years ago when he was targeted by raiders. Ascot Goldsmiths is a member of the BJA, Rough Diamond Dealer’s Association of South Africa, the London Diamond Bourse and Club and the Jewellery Council of South Africa. It prides itself on being a traditional jeweller that sells antique and estate jewellery and watches and offers repairs and pawnbroking services.