Burglars stole tens of thousands of pounds worth of watches from a jewellers after using a sledgehammer to smash through the window.
Police discovered the break-in on St Ann Street in Manchester city centre at around 4.40am this morning (Wednesday).
The front window of the jewellers had been smashed in with a sledgehammer, a spokesperson for GMP said.
The burglars also stole watches worth tens of thousands of pounds.
No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.
The name of the jewellers has not been confirmed by GMP, but pictures taken this morning showed a police cordon in place around the Ernest Jones store near St Ann's Square.
A police van, car and crime scene investigation vehicle were stationed at the scene.
The front window of the shop had been badly damaged.
Anyone with information about the burglary is being urged to come forward.
Inspector Jon Shilvock said: "Those responsible for this have caused significant damage and stolen watches worth tens of thousands of pounds.
"We are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything, or has information about the identity of those responsible, or the whereabouts of the stolen items, to call 101 quoting reference 296-05/05/21.
"Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the Greater Manchester Police website, www.gmp.police.uk."
A spokesperson for Ernest Jones said: "At approximately 04:43am on 5th May 2021 a burglary took place at Ernest Jones on St Ann Street in Manchester City Centre.
"We are working with the police closely to assist with the investigation."
