Thieves smashed their way into a jewellers to snatch haul of expensive watches.
Two men targeted Ernest Jones in the Eastgate Centre, Basildon during the smash and grab.
Witnesses say six Tag Heuer watches were stole in the break-in and police and bosses were on scene soon after.
An Essex Police spokesman said: "A man smashed the window shortly after 5pm on Friday and took a number of watches. He ran off with an accomplice. Enquiries remain ongoing.
"Anyone with information is asked to contact us online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm. Alternatively, you can call 101.
"Please quote crime reference 42/190015/20. Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org."
Eastgate Shopping Centre refused to comment Ernest Jones was unavailable for comment.
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