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.