Antique American pocket watch, circa 1890, private-label for a Wisconsin jeweler.
Dial
Signed H.P. Toms, Richland Center, Wis. and SPECIAL.
White enamel, Roman numerals, red 5-minute markers, subsidiary seconds.
Glass crystal (cold to the touch).
There is an enamel chip at the rim by the red 10, with a short crack from that area. See photos.
Movement
• Almost certainly Elgin National Watch Co., private-labeled (Elgin name not on the plates)
• Serial 4038607 (Elgin serials in this range date to about 1890)
• 17 jewels
• Safety pinion
• Also signed H.P. Toms, Richland Center, Wis.
• Lever-set; the setting lever is present and intact
• Open-face
H. Toms operated a jewelry store in Richland Center, Wisconsin, in this period. This was a retailer-signed watch, not a factory railroad grade.
Case
• Keystone Watch Case Co. (keystone/diamond logo)
• Marked WARRANTED 20 YEARS — gold-filled, not solid gold
• Case number 560148
• Open-face
• Engraved steam locomotive and station scene on the back
• Diameter about 2-1/16 inches
• Honest wear, tarnish, and some brassing; engraving still clear
Condition — please read
• Crown winds with strong, springy resistance (mainspring feels present).
• Watch does not run reliably from winding alone. After a few shakes it will run for several minutes, then stop. Typical of a dirty/dry movement that needs a full clean and oil.
• Sold as-is for restoration, collecting, or display. No guarantee it will keep time after service.
What this is not
• Not solid gold
• Not a 21-jewel railroad watch
• Not recently serviced
Country of origin: United States (movement and case).
Photos show dial, locomotive case back, movement, inner case marks, setting lever, and the enamel chip. Please look at every photo before bidding.
Questions welcome.