THE WATCH
A Friendship Born During the Korean War.
Among those working at the Swedish Red Cross Hospital in Busan was a young South Korean man, born on June 15, 1931. During his time at the hospital, he developed a close friendship with an American soldier, a friendship that would eventually lead him to this very Girard-Perregaux.
According to his daughter’s account, the American soldier had recently handed in the watch at the military Post Exchange (PX). Before leaving Korea, he encouraged his Korean friend to purchase it.
Taking his friend’s advice, the young man acquired the watch at the PX – a Swiss timepiece that would accompany him through an extraordinary chapter of his life.
In 1956, he left South Korea for Stockholm, Sweden since he fall in love with one of the Swedish nurses. In Sweden they build a new life and start a family. The Girard-Perregaux travelled with him.
Following his passing in 2022, his children discovered it carefully preserved in a drawer, a tangible reminder of their father’s remarkable journey and a friendship formed during one of the most turbulent periods of the 20th century.
More than seventy years later, this very watch has found its way to WOFS Watches, carrying with it a personal story connecting South Korea, the United States and Sweden. Isn’t a beautiful story?
SPECIFIC INFORMATION
Object nr: SM
Brand: Girard Perregaux
Model: Manuell Watch
Reference: Case nr: 43120251
Year: 1940’s
Movement: GP cal. 46 BE 17 jewels
Material: Chrome-plated brass with stainless steel caseback.
Original crown: Yes, probably. Big size crown
Dimensions: ca 33 mm ex crown
Strap/Bracelet: Old black leather strap (original?)
Lug Width: 16mm
Box/Papers: No, but the story from the daughter is included with her signature and also the pictures copied on paper
Service: Service history unknown but the watch works very good with a rate about 12-15s/day and long powerreserve
CONDITION
The watch is presented in beautiful vintage condition, displaying an attractive character that reflects its remarkable history and more than seven decades of existence.
The case shows signs of age and wear consistent with its vintage nature, while retaining its charming overall appearance. The dial has developed a lovely patina, adding depth and individuality to this historically fascinating timepiece.
The watch is running well and currently shows good timekeeping results. However, its service history is unknown, and it is being sold as unserviced. We therefore recommend a professional service before regular use.
Given the watch’s exceptional provenance, we have deliberately chosen to preserve its authentic vintage character rather than undertake any unnecessary cosmetic restoration.