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MADRID, Mar 15 (Reuters) Are you the owner of a jewelled cross lost in Madrid in the middle of the last century? If you're still alive and good on the Internet, you could finally get it back.

The city is clearing out decades' worth of lost property in a very modern way -- on eBay.

Pocket watches, brooches and Spanish shawls are some of the classier items mislaid between 1924 and 1970 being offered over three days on the Internet auction site.

So far, the gold and platinum cross studded with diamonds cross is leading the running, priced at 1,640 euros ($1,964).

Another of the 110 lots, enticingly titled ''various pieces and metal watch'', languishes at 4.50 euros.

Other objects on offer include signet rings, bracelets, a pair of opera glasses and a medal inscribed: ''All for the Fatherland''.

But don't look here for the bicycles, baby seats and mobile phones that have been handed in more recently.

A new rule says Madrid only has to hang on to lost property for two years, at which point the finder becomes the keeper.

Reuters SK VP0412