Baume Mercier 14K Gold Watch Gifted by Elvis Presley to Las Vegas International Hotel Bandleader Bobby Morris – Engraved “To Bobby from Squirrly, EP”

Elvis’ return to the stage and live concert performances in 1969 at the Las Vegas International Hotel was the beginning of his renaissance and his long, popular stay in Sin City. Elvis, obviously grateful to those that supported his return and helped usher in his wildly successful stint, gave his band members, including International Hotel band leader, Bobby Morris, Baume & Mercier personally-engraved wristwatches. Bobby performed with Elvis in 1969 during his appearances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas. The gifted 14 karat yellow gold watch, weighing approximately 40.7 grams, is accompanied by a letter signed by Bobby Morris that states in part:

I attended hundreds of rehearsals and performed for many legendary stars in Las Vegas. I first moved to Las Vegas in the late 40’s and was the lead percussionist for many including: Liberace, Ronnie Reagan, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and countless others. I was eventually hired to be the band leader by Bill Morris and Kirk Kerkorian for the opening of the International Showroom with Barbara Streisand and then Elvis Presley. Elvis first gave me the Baume Mercier 14K solid gold wristwatch in the summer of ‘69 during one of his rehearsals. It has the Las Vegas International Hotel logo and is engraved, “To Bobby from Squirrly, EP.” He and I developed a great friendship over the years, and I worked closely with him. [Morris goes on to describe another item Elvis gave him at the time and finishes the letter.] I never wore either item after he handed them to me as he was special even then.

The watch is marked “Baume & Mercier / Geneve / Swiss” on the gold face. The textured gold surround on the dial with quartz movement is mounted to a weave-patterned gold bracelet with snap channel clasp. The back of the watch with the B & M stamp above the logo for the Imperial Hotel is engraved, “Bobby from Squirrly EP.” Elvis was given the nickname “Squirrely” because of his fooling around during the rehearsals. The engraver misspelled "Squirrely" on this and other known examples. Baume & Mercier is a Swiss luxury watchmaker founded in 1830 and continues to make quality watches to this day. Certainly a gift worthy of the great appreciation Elvis felt for his supporting band members. The watch, with band measuring 7 5/8 in length and face measuring 1 1/8 inches in diameter, is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated (quoted here). The watch presents with minimal wear. Near Mint condition.