G r u e n P a n A m e r i c a n A c e
c. 1 9 4 6
Gruen “Pan American Ace” men’s Retro Modern design wristwatch in 10K yellow gold fill with stainless steel caseback, circa 1946.
The Gruen “Pan American” was originally produced around 1943 exclusively for Pan American Airways pilots during World War II. At America’s entry into World War II in December of 1941, Pan American Airways ceased civilian flights and its planes were pressed into military service by the United States government, as the airline’s nine famous Boeing 314 Clipper flying boats were the only aircraft capable of crossing the oceans. Although under control of the United States military, these Pan American Clippers were flown by Pan American pilots and crews, ferrying military personnel and equipment across the Atlantic and Pacific. Even though the watches were not available to the general public, Gruen published advertisements featuring both the Pan American watches and Pan American Clipper flying boats, creating public awareness of the Gruen’s contributions to the war effort as well as sowing the seeds for postwar demand for the watches by consumers. The “Pan American” watches were produced for public sale beginning in late 1945, with numerous variations produced. This version is in excellent condition with no brassing. Caseback is excellent, with presentation engraving from 1946. The case measures 39mm long and 32mm wide. Dial has been beautifully refinished to its correct original appearance with an alternating two-tone white and silver butler finish and luminous numerals and hands. Has new glass crystal. This watch is powered by a 17 jewel Gruen grade 420SS Veri-Thin movement.
(SOLD)
