Original Ford Mustang Designer’s Watch Is For Sale

Lee Iacocca is typically referred to as the “father of the Ford Mustang,” but in reality, there were several other people that played a key role in helping to bring the now-iconic pony car to life. High atop that list is Gale Halderman, the man who was originally hired as a designer in the Lincoln-Mercury studio, but transferred over to Ford shortly afterward. He spent his entire 40-year career at The Blue Oval, but it was reportedly on his front porch where Halderman drew the rough sketch that would eventually become the original Ford Mustang. Sadly, Halderman passed away back in 2020, but now, his watch is up for grabs.

As part of its new “Rare Parts” collection, Ford is selling a number of interesting items from Mustang history, with proceeds benefiting the Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) charitable organization, which has a goal of finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. This collection includes every thing from models to limited-edition prints, memorabilia, wheels, and much more, all accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. That collection includes this very interesting watch worn by the man who penned the very first Ford Mustang sketch, which was submitted as part of a design competition for its new 2+2 sports car, and Halderman came up with five or six ideas as a result.

Out of two dozen entries, one of Halderman’s sketches was selected as the winner, which at the time was intended to come up with ideas for a “sporty youth car” codenamed T-5, eventually becoming the basis for what we now know as the very first Ford Mustang. Thus, Halderman’s gold tone, classic-style Citizen watch with a black lizard strap should prove pretty desirable for pony car fans, as it was worn by the legendary designer and later donated to Mustang expert John Clor.

Now, this piece of Ford Mustang history can be purchased for $500 here, and it includes a certificate of authenticity. For now at least, the piece is still available, though we imagine that someone will probably jump at the chance to add it to their collection soon.