Case size: 33.5 mm
Material: 18K gold
Movement: automatic, caliber 562
Year: circa 1961
Crystal: plastic crystal
Bracelet: bracelet in 18K gold
Serial number: 18'308'763
Case number: 14701 SC 61
Total weight approximately 65 grams. Wear due to age and use.
A simple function check indicated the movement runs; accuracy, power reserve and long-term performance have not been tested and servicing may be required at the buyer’s expense. Pictures of the movement are available upon request. Water resistance cannot be guaranteed and should be checked by a qualified watchmaker before any exposure to water. No right of withdrawal applies to live auction purchases.
This watch was presented to the current owners father as a gift following service with the United Nations in the Congo, 1961–1962.
Information provided by the current owner.
This watch belonged to our father, Håkan T. Håkan T was a Swedish officer who served with the Swedish UN battalion in the Congo during the dramatic period of 1961–1962. He is known to have commanded troops during intense fighting in the province of Katanga.
Håkan T’s role in the Congo
During the Congo operation, known as ONUC (Opération des Nations Unies au Congo), Håkan T served as a company commander.
The Battle of Elisabethville: T led his company during the heavy fighting in Elisabethville (present-day Lubumbashi) in December 1961. His unit played a central role in the assaults on strategic targets including the Post Office and the Radio House, which were held by Katangese gendarmes and foreign mercenaries.
Awards: For his leadership and courage during these operations, T was later awarded the Order of Vasa (Knight First Class).
Historical context: His service coincided with the most active phase of the UN operation in the Congo, shortly after the death of Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld in September 1961.