I've always had an interest in watches with engraved backs with some sort of event depicted, primarily military, or researchable name. I happened across this Chronographe Suisse 18k chronograph and purchased it based upon the inscription on the back. The Flying Marines 1945 inscription was interesting and I was initially thinking maybe a pilot during the war. I was surprised to find it was referencing the El Toro (Marine Base in California) Flying Marines football team which the original owner of the watch quarterbacked in 1945. These put together military teams were basically for morale during the war years and to help sell war bonds. From what I've read the quality of football played by these college kids was better than the pro teams of that era. These were really college all star teams.

It looks like the original owner played two years at the University of Southern California then did two years with the Marines before returning to USC after the war. He played both quarterback and halfback. After graduation he dropped football in order to take up an acting career even though he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers to play professional football. He did stunt work in his first couple of films and then some acting in small, uncredited, roles before getting into directing. He used his football experiences to good measure as he was the technical advisor for Burt Lancaster for the football portion of the movie Jim Thorpe and worked with many stars during his career. He worked as a director in Hollywood into the 1980's. I've attached a couple of scans from the two DVDs I acquired in which he has a part. On one scan you can see another uncredited actor (Rock Hudson) in the background. Many of his films are listed here: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0564957/

Also includes are a couple of El Toro Flying Marines programs and also a USC program. In addition, I'm also including two original Associated Press news photo's of the player and also a book by Wilbur Jones (autographed) about the role of these military football teams during WW2. All together an interesting collection.

The watch is a Chronographe Suisse w/18k case. These watches were thin and usually susceptible to dings and dents over the years, if worn regularly, and this one is no different. The original dial was badly degraded from age so I acquired a new old stock (nos) dial as a replacement. The original dial will be included with the watch. The watch was serviced and a new crystal and crown installed when the dial was replaced and it's working great and keeping accurate time for it's age. I wouldn't recommend it going near and source of moisture as these were not waterproof. The watch has a nos vintage leather strap installed. If you're into football, military, or Hollywood history this is a great piece to have. $900 obo delivered stateside. Thanks for looking.