Brent Police are appealing for information to trace the whereabouts of a £40,000 Patek Philippe watch stolen during a burglary in Kilburn.

The valuable heirloom, which has huge sentimental value to its owner, was stolen during the break-in at the house in Christchurch Avenue yesterday morning.

The thieves also made off with an iPad, a laptop, a pair of black Asprey diamond encrusted cufflinks and a collection of coins after breaking into the property through the front door between 9.15am and 11.15am.

The victim, a man aged in his 30s, said: “This was my grandfather’s watch passed down to me though the generations from my late mother, who herself passed away in 2011.

“It holds massive sentimental value and is irreplaceable. I was simply holding it for my son when it was his time to take possession. Whoever has it, please return it.”

Detective Sergeant Paul Woodham, investigating officer, said: “I would appeal to anyone who has been offered this watch, or any of the items taken during this burglary, to contact police.

“We are issuing a picture of the watch in the hope someone will recognise it and help us locate it so it can be returned to its rightful owner.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Brent Police on 101 quoting ref: CRIS 1918947/14 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.