This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/8/2016.
Rube Foster was a pioneer executive in the Negro leagues. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981, Foster, one of the best pitchers in the early 1900s, also founded and managed the Chicago American Giants, one of the most successful black baseball teams of the pre-integration era. Most notably, he organized the Negro National League, the first long-lasting professional league for African-American ballplayers, which operated from 1920 to 1931. He is known as the "father of Black Baseball.” This silver Argentan Depose (serial number “277835”) has a white enamel dial with Roman numbers and a sub dial second hand. This watch is in VG condition and is still operational. The engraving on the back has the name, “Rube Foster” and the team name, “K.C. Monarchs”. Below reads, “NEGRO NATIONAL LEAGUE”. An independent jeweler inspected the piece and noted these were hand engraved and appear to be vintage to the piece. Due to the wearing down of the high point lettering in “K.C.” and tarnishing within the lines, it is clear that the engraving was done in a professional manner by a skilled craftsman. There are no signs of contrived wear or age. We were told by our consignor that this watch has been in his possession for quite some time. It was acquired from a gentleman who has reasonable ties from the Foster family outside of the collecting hobby. This pocket watch is a treasure for both Negro League enthusiasts and fans collecting unique pieces from baseball’s history.