This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/11/2018
On August 21, 1949, the New York Yankees held a special “Connie Mack Day” at Yankee Stadium. The 86-year-old was in his 49th year as the much-revered manager of the Philadelphia Athletics. In the nearly five decades at the helm of the A’s, Mack won five World Championships and had compiled a record that put him at the top of the list of both most career wins, losses and games by a manager. To honor the great man 65,000 fans turned out for the pre-game ceremony. Mack was joined on the field by a large group of former A’s and Yankees as he was presented with watch by the New York Yankees for his “long and meritorious service to baseball.”
A few of these watches presented to other individuals have surfaced in the market, but never before the actual watch Connie Mack received that afternoon in Yankee Stadium. The back of the Wittnauer watchcase is inscribed “CONNIE MACK DAY AUGUST 21, 1949 YANKEE STADIUM” along with “Connie Mack” in italic type above. The watch is in perfect working order (on time down to the second) and a healthy amount of wear, presumably from the legendary skipper. There are some expected surface scuffs and abrasions on the watchcase and band, plus some wear to the crystal and light toning on the face. A unique gift presented from one legendary ball club to their worthy adversary, marking the occasion of his 49th year as manager.
This lot has a Reserve Price that has not been met.