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John F. Kennedy Deluxe 14K Hamilton Electric Wristwatch. Circa 1960....
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Sold on Dec 1, 2022 for:
$12,500.00
Bid Source: Internet bidder
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Description
Custom Hamilton Electric Watch Gifted to President Kennedy by the Governor of Pennsylvania at Independence Hall
John F. Kennedy Deluxe 14K Hamilton Electric Wristwatch.
Circa 1960. This stunning custom Hamilton "Summit" 505
electric watch features a 14k solid gold S&W case and buckle
with the original Hamilton alligator leather band. Measuring: 37 mm
wide, 41 mm lug to lug. Housed in a later blue velvet case lined in
white satin. Excellent condition: the battery has been removed and
presents no internal corrosion or wear.This custom watch was gifted to President Kennedy by the Governor of Pennsylvania, David L. Lawrence, and features custom images of the Kennedys' two children, Caroline and John, on the face. The watch was one of three gifts from Governor and his state, presented during Kennedy's visit to Independence Hall, Philadelphia, for Independence Day 1962. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Kennedy was particularly delighted with the watch, declaring "it's terrific!"
A machine-engraved message on the back of the case reads:
To
The President
United States of America
From
David L. Lawrence
Governor of Pennsylvania
Independence Hall
July 4, 1962
Interestingly, the Hamilton Watch Company operated out of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, but closed American manufacture the same decade this watch was made. They were particularly known for their work in developing accurate railroad watches, but their 500 series, introducing the world's first commercially produced electric wristwatches, launched their global demand.
[Together with:] A Letter of Authenticity Signed by Evelyn Lincoln, Personal Secretary to President Kennedy. Issued on White House Stationary, 9.25 x 6.25 inches (234 x 159 mm) and dated September 9, 1988. In part: "This gold Hamilton watch...with pictures of Caroline and John on its face...was gives [sic] to the late President John F. Kennedy. The President wore it for a short time. Later it was discarded." Somewhat unsurprising considering Kennedy's affinity for watches and the many that he was gifted over the course of his career.
Condition: Face and back of case lightly scratched. Leather band lightly creased and rubbed from wear.
References: The Philadelphia Inquirer, "Kennedy's Visit to Phila. Sets Historic Note...", July 5, 1962.
Auction Info
2022 December 1 Historical Platinum Session Signature® Auction #6267 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
December, 2022
1st
Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 1
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 885
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