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Vintage Favre-Leuba Genève Saddam Hussein Iraqi Student Union Portrait Tank Watch (28mm x GenèveOriginSwiss MadeEraMid-1970s (Circa 1975)MovementFavre-Leuba Manual-Wind / Hand-Wound (17 Jewels)Case Dimensions28mm Width x 37mm Length (Rectangular Tank Style)Case MaterialGold-Plated Base Metal Case with Stainless Steel BackDialOriginal Champagne Dial with Military Portrait of Saddam Hussein & Arabic InscriptionInscriptionالاتحاد الوطني لطلبة العراق (National Union of Iraqi Students)PackagingIncludes Branded Presentation Box
Historic Official Iraqi State & Diplomatic Commemorative Piece
Commissioned in small batches by the Iraqi government during the mid-1970s, this Swiss-made Favre-Leuba Genève Tank wristwatch was produced for the National Union of Iraqi Students (الاتحاد الوطني لطلبة العراق). The dial features a prominent portrait of Saddam Hussein in military uniform alongside stylized Arabic calligraphy. As official state-commissioned pieces, these timepieces were distributed as political rewards and honors, making them exceptional artifacts for collectors of middle-eastern history, political horology, and state-issued commemorative watches.
Key Technical & Collector Highlights
Official Commemorative Dial: Factory-printed portrait of Saddam Hussein accompanied by crisp Arabic text designating the National Union of Iraqi Students.
17-Jewel Swiss Manual Movement: High-grade Swiss hand-wound movement signed Favre-Leuba on the main bridge plate.
Classic Tank Profile: Sleek 28mm x 37mm rectangular dress silhouette with thin stick indices and pencil hands.
Collector Box Set: Presented in a matching vintage display box, significantly adding to its presentation and market desirability.
Detailed Condition Report
Dial & Print: The original champagne dial shows clean, unfaded artwork with clear Arabic lettering and sharp portrait detailing.
Movement: 17-jewel manual-wind caliber is clean, winding smoothly via the crown and holding accurate operational time.
Case & Finish: Gold plating retains strong coverage with light vintage surface wear consistent with age; caseback hallmarks remain visible.
Strap & Box: Fitted to a complementary brown leather strap; included presentation box is in good, sturdy condition.
