MK Personal Collection Rare Military Omega Chronograph Ref 2451 Cal 321 Wristwatch Circa 1957 Fighter Pilot Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient

MK Personal Collection Rare Military Omega Chronograph Ref 2451 Cal 321 Wristwatch Circa 1957 Fighter Pilot Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient . This steel Omega chronograph wristwatch was a gift to Major General George Brandt from "his friends" at the Wisconsin Wing Staff (CAP) Civil Air Patrol, Dated 1957. George W. A. Brandt Jr. was born on January 6,1920. He always wanted to be a pilot and started with enlisting with the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941. He earned his wings as a RACF Sergeant and in 1942 he was repatriated into the U.S. Army Air Corps and received his battlefield commission in 1943 ready for WWII. George flew over 50 missions over Germany in his B-17 Bomber nicknamed "Queenie". One of his missions earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism. George was flying on his 50th mission back from Germany into North Africa on a hope and a prayer because he was missing an engine, had a shot up plane and had no landing gear but he managed to land that B-17 36,000lbs bomber on the runway saving him and his 10 crew members which was simply amazing. He continued with an illustrious career in the U.S. Air Force eventually retiring as a Full Colonel in 1973. This watch is a rare chronograph in a three piece stainless steel circular case with applied beveled lugs that measure 42mm x 39mm including the crown and 18mm between the lugs. It is signed on the inside back cover "Omega Watch Co Fab. Swiss Made Ref 2451". The watch has an Omega caliber 321, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance, self compensating Breguet balance spring with shock absorber (Serial #14.781.561) that is in running condition. As with most antique wrist watches, we recommend an overhaul service just so the watch keeps super accurate time. The watch is topped with a rare original silver painted dial with triple engine turned registers (30 minute, 12 hour and constant 60 seconds) outer 60 minute chapter ring. The watch is in overall good condition. It is engraved on the back cover "Happy Landings And Bright Future To Major George Brandt From His Friends Wisconsin Wing Staff CAP November 1957". The watch is accompanied with the fitted box.