An Extraordinarily Scarce Original 1928 New York Yankees World Series Champions Hamilton "Piping Rock" Watch Presented by Colonel Jacob Ruppert

Gifted by Yankees Owner to Neil Mooney, railway director of "The Flying Yankee Special" and Assistant Passenger Traffic Manager of the New York Central Lines

A TIMELESS CONNECTION TO YANKEES GREATNESS

While often overshadowed by the 1927 “Murderers’ Row” squad, the 1928 New York Yankees were nearly as dominant—and every bit as historic. They steamrolled their way to a second straight World Series title, solidifying their dynasty and receiving commemorative watches as symbols of triumph.

Initially awarded to players, Colonel Jacob Ruppert presented this Hamilton "Piping Rock" watch made of 14K white gold to someone just as vital to the team’s success off the field: Neil Mooney, Assistant Passenger Traffic Manager of the New York Central Lines. Mooney was the logistical mastermind behind Yankees travel, ensuring Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and the rest of the Yanks arrived on time, often ahead of schedule. A New York Times article from October 5, 1926, titled “Train With Yanks Makes Record Run,” spotlighted Mooney’s work directing “The Flying Yankee Special.”

This impressive timepiece, engraved with Mooney’s name in the same style as those given to players, is a work of art and a symbol of gratitude. Its ornate case back features a majestic American eagle perched atop crossed bats with baseball-style stitching and the inscription: “Yankees 1928 World Champions.”

The watch’s provenance is rich with personal history. After Mooney’s unexpected death in 1933, his widow entrusted it to Valdemar Karlawish, a close friend and railroad colleague who was also part of the crew assuring safe and efficient travel for the Yankees. It has remained in the Karlawish family for generations — passed from Valdemar to his son John W. From John W.'s estate it was passed to his son Keith F. Karlawish. Now, this remarkable relic emerges, ready to be cherished by a new Yankees devotee.

Maker: Hamilton
Model: Limited Edition Yankees World Champions Piping Rock
Year: Circa 1928
Case size: Approx. 28 mm
Case material: 14K white gold, engraved 'YANKEES 1928 WORLD CHAMPIONS' on reverse and 'NEIL MOONEY' on side
Bezel: Black enamel with Roman numerals
Dial: Silvered
Movement: Manual wind
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
Stamps: Inner case back: HAMILTON WATCH CO. 14K LANCASTER P.A. 126961. Movement: HAMILTON WATCH CO. 2905620 979.
Gross weight: 22.85 dwt.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/1926/10/05/archives/train-with-yanks-makes-record-run-new-york-central-special-cuts.html?searchResultPosition=8

This lot is located in Chicago.

Bracelet size: Approx. 7 1/2 inches
Overall Condition: The watch winds, sets and runs at the time of cataloguing but has not been timed for accuracy. Chips to the enamel on the bezel. Scratching to the metal throughout consistent with age and wear.

Please note that Freeman’s Hindman does not warranty the watch at the time of the auction or after its purchase. Potential buyers should be advised that though the watch may be running at the time of cataloging, it may stop running before the auction and servicing is recommended for all timepieces. The authenticity of individual parts is not guaranteed since repairs and restoration may have occurred. Hindman assumes all watches are unisex and does not specify the gender of a piece. For size reference, please see the case measurements of the piece listed under dimensions.
Any information appearing in the Condition Report should be treated as opinion and is provided as a courtesy. Freeman’s | Hindman is not responsible for any discrepancies, errors, or errors of omission. All lots are sold “AS IS”.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

To request further details about this lot, please email [email protected]

James Smith

AVP, Head of Department, Sports Memorabilia

[email protected]312.600.6071

Mr. Smith joined Freeman's in 2018 and has been personally active in the sports memorabilia industry for four decades, bringing an extensive knowledge base across all sports and sports-related collecting categories. He regularly attends sports memorabilia conventions throughout the country to gauge the latest demands. Prior to joining Freeman's, Mr. Smith enjoyed an award-winning career in journalism, creating memorable newspaper covers and sports pages as Page One Editor at the Chicago Sun-Times.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Sports Memorabilia

An Extraordinarily Scarce Original 1928 New York Yankees World Series Champions Hamilton "Piping Rock" Watch Presented by Colonel Jacob Ruppert

Gifted by Yankees Owner to Neil Mooney, railway director of "The Flying Yankee Special" and Assistant Passenger Traffic Manager of the New York Central Lines

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