Born March 17, 1912 in Kaylor, PA, Joseph Lee Stydahar played college ball for West Virginia. Standing 6'4" and weighing 240 pounds, Joe Stydahar was an enduring tackle regularly playing all 60 minutes of a game, and often without the aid of a helmet.
According to his bio at www.profootballhof.com, "In 1936, George Halas selected a little-known tackle from West Virginia named Joe Styadahar. He had earned various All-Eastern honors and played in the College-All Star Game before joining the Bears. "Jumbo Joe" was the epitome of the Bears' overpowering strength at that time. Fearless and huge by the standards of the day, Stydahar possessed incredible power and remarkable speed."
An immediate Pro Bowler, Joe Styadahar helped anchor the line and led the Chicago Bears to the 1940 World Championship game versus the Washington Redskins. This was the 8th Championship game played, and it was hosted at Griffith Stadium in Washington, D.C. on December 8th, 1940.
Washington had best the Bears earlier in the season by a score of 7-3. After the Bears lost, Redskins owner George Preston Marshall told reporteres that the Bears were crybabies and quitters.
George Halas saved the newspaper quotes and posted them in the lockeroom before the game, in what proved to be a successful attempt in motivating the team.
The Bears quickly took control and led 28-0 at halftime. The Bears continued to crush the Redskins, scoring 45 points during the second half. So many footballs were kicked into the stands after touchdowns that officials asked Halas to run or pass for the point after attempts.
To commemorate the Championship, George Halas commissioned Championship watches to be given to his players. Measuring 1 3/4", the swiss style watch was manufactured by Longines Watch Co.. On the inside of the casing is factory stamped, "Cased and Timed in U.S.A. by Longines, 10K Gold filled, 9090618."
Engraved per Halas's instructions are "CHICAGO BEARS, 1940 WORLD CHAMPIONS, Joe Stydahar, LT - (football image)"
The reverse of the watch in the area of the engraving is in excellent to near mint condition. Regarding the rest of the condition, the crystal is broken, there is wear to the face, and the hands are missing. The watch currently does not work. On March 23rd, 1977, Mr. Joe Stydahar died while choking on a piece of steak. Although not supported by a newspaper account, it is theorized that this watch may have been in his possession and was broken during the choking episode. Regardless, this is the earliest and only known World Championship Trophy watch associated with a Chicago Bears Hall of Fame player. First time offered for consideration. LOA MEARS