I walk a bike path daily and recently met a fellow who said he had a pocket watch. We agreed upon a time and place to meet so he could show his watch. It turns out that his father, Frank Larson, had been given this watch in 1935 as a result of being a college football All American. He was featured on a Wheaties box, and had starred on the National Champion University of Minnesota team. The watch did not run and had a couple of issues. I agreed to clean and oil it and try to improve its appearance. The photos that follow are of this watch.
BEFORE

After, thanks to Gary Cochran providing a suitable dial and crown.

Frank not only appeared on the Wheaties box but also in an advertisement. The background of this photo is an advertisement warning mothers against "forcing" children to eat hot cereal for breakfast. After all, a bowl of Wheaties is all they need. This ad is from a 1935 magazine.

Another shot with the dialogue a bit clearer. Also a NOS glass beveled crystal now replaces the plastic one.

Here is the inscription on the cuvette

The watch is now back on its display stand in the home of Don Larson, Frank's Son.

Turned out really nice..Good work..

Great work Mike and cool story of the ownership
knowing you I know the owner is happy with your work.

The athletes were on the back of the box in 1935. Today's athletes are, of course, on the front. I asked Don if it was OK to post these photos and he readily agreed. He may actually view this post so I'll say he is a nice guy It was a fun project and today his watch is ticking away along side his other memorabilia. BTW, it is a Hamilton 12s, 918, 19 jewel, in a 14k solid White Gold case. Sold for $100 in 1935 according to an ad in our database.

Great job Mike and it was very nice of you to help them out and preserve some history.

Nice save - Mike

Mike, Do you have a movement pix?

Great story, and great work Mike!

Joe, I did not photo the movement as it was a stock 918 and the reason for showing this was actually the case and the story. The movement was in fine condition with very few scratches and even the mainspring was still serviceable. Looked to have been serviced 4 or 5 times over the years.

Great story!
This is what collecting is all about, saving a piece of history one watch at a time.

Mike