The Story of Sergeant Carl Becker and His Aero Neuchâtel Chronograph

Donated with gratitude by his niece, Liz Wedepohl Wilson

Some watches tell time.

Others tell a story.

This one carries a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and a life shaped by extraordinary moments in history.

During World War II, a young man from the quiet, windswept shores of Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin—Sergeant Carl Becker—raised his hand and stepped forward to serve his country. Assigned to the United States Army Tank Corps under General George S. Patton, Carl entered the heart of the European Theater, where armored divisions faced some of the war’s most demanding and dangerous campaigns.

Like so many American soldiers moving through Europe during the war, Carl chose to bring home a reminder of the world he had seen—something crafted with precision and meant to endure. At some point during his wartime journey, he acquired this Aero Watch Company chronograph, produced in the historic watchmaking region of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, long regarded as a center of Swiss horological excellence.

The watch houses a 17-jewel, manual-wind Landeron caliber 70 chronograph movement, known for its reliability and strength—qualities that mirrored Carl himself. Its copper-metal dial with gold-foil markers, original strap, and classic 35mm x 42.5mm proportions speak to a timeless elegance. Newly serviced, its chronograph still snaps to life with purpose, just as it did when Carl first wore it.

But the true story lies not in the watch alone, but in the man who carried it.

Sergeant Becker’s service record reflects a soldier who stood in the thick of history. He earned the American Theater Ribbon and the European–African–Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with three Bronze Battle Stars, marking his presence in multiple major campaigns. He served overseas long enough to earn two Overseas Bars, symbols of the many months he spent far from home.

Most poignantly, Carl was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat—a stark reminder that his courage came at great personal cost.

Yet, like so many of his generation, Carl returned quietly to the life he had left behind. After the war, he came home to Baileys Harbor, carrying with him the memories, the scars, and this very watch—a small piece of beauty chosen amid the hardship of war.

Now, thanks to his niece, Liz Wedepohl Wilson, this treasured timepiece will continue to serve a purpose rooted in hope. By supporting the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation, the watch that once accompanied a young soldier through the crucible of history will help future generations pursue their own dreams with courage, resilience, and purpose.

A watch born in Switzerland.

Carried through war.

Worn by a hero.

Cherished in Wisconsin.

And now, ready to inspire the next generation.

Some stories are kept.

This one is meant to be shared.