Up for auction is an antique Elgin National Watch Co. B.W. Raymond pocket watch, dating to approximately 1910. This is a 16 size, 19 jewel, Grade 372, Model 15 open-face movement with serial number 14227340.
The watch is currently running at the time of listing. However, due to the high volume of watches we process, we do not test or guarantee timekeeping accuracy, power reserve, or continued operation. Service history is unknown unless otherwise stated.
WATCH / MOVEMENT DETAILS:
The movement is especially attractive, with extensive decorative finishing across the plates and winding wheels, gold-tone lettering and accents, visible jewels, and an ornate regulator assembly.
MOVEMENT MARKINGS:
The movement is visibly marked:
“B.W. Raymond”
“ELGIN, ILL.”
“U.S.A.”
“19 JEWELS”
“14227340”
“SAFETY BARREL”
“5 POSITIONS”
“ADJUSTED”
The movement serial number is 14227340.
DIAL:
This watch has a very attractive Elgin-signed double-sunk railroad-style porcelain/enamel dial. The center section is signed “ELGIN.”
The dial features large, highly legible black Arabic hour numerals, a black outer minute track, and contrasting red five-minute numerals around the perimeter from 5 through 60. A recessed subsidiary seconds register is located at 6 o’clock and is numbered in black. The watch is fitted with dark blued/blue-tone hands.
The dial does have several condition issues that are important to note and are shown clearly in the photographs. There is a chip along the outer edge at approximately the 4 o’clock position, with associated hairlines in the 4 o’clock area. There are also two noticeable hairlines extending outward from the center of the dial—one runs toward approximately 4 o’clock, while another extends toward the area between 10 and 11 o’clock.
An additional hairline runs through approximately the 7 o’clock area, and there is a lighter/slighter hairline in the area between 5 and 6 o’clock. Other fine age-related lines or marks may also be present. We have included a close photograph of the dial with the front bezel/crystal removed so the dial condition can be examined clearly. Please review the photographs carefully for the exact extent and location of the chips and hairlines.
Despite these age-related condition issues, the bold railroad-style dial remains very attractive and highly readable.
CASE & CASE MARKINGS:
The watch is housed in a Keystone Watch Case. The inside case cover has attractive circular engine-turned finishing and is clearly factory marked:
“KEYSTONE”
“WATCH CASE”
“GUARANTEED”
“SILVEROID”
“GENUINE”
“221689”
There is also the Keystone manufacturer’s emblem incorporated into the stamping.
The “GUARANTEED SILVEROID GENUINE” marking identifies the case as a Silveroid case. Silveroid was a trade name used for a silver-colored base-metal watch-case alloy; it should not be confused with sterling silver or solid silver.
In addition to the factory markings, the inside cover shows old hand-scratched watchmaker/service marks near the lower portion. These markings are faint and difficult to read with certainty, so rather than speculate on the exact characters, please refer to the close-up photographs. Such hand-scratched markings were commonly added by watchmakers during previous servicing.
The exterior back of the case is plain and unmonogrammed. It shows scratches, scuffs, surface wear and age-related discoloration/patina consistent with an antique pocket watch. The case edges and bezel also show wear from use. Please examine the photographs closely for exact condition.
CONDITION:
This is an antique watch dating to approximately 1910 and shows age and use throughout. Of particular note are the dial chip and multiple hairlines described above, along with normal case wear, scratches, scuffs, patina and other age-related cosmetic imperfections.
The movement presents nicely with ornate decorative finishing and visible jewel settings. We have not disassembled, serviced, or inspected the movement internally.
The watch is currently running at the time of listing. Due to the high volume of watches we process, we do not test or guarantee timekeeping accuracy.
fPlease examine all photographs carefully, as they are considered an important part of the description and provide the best representation of the watch’s cosmetic condition.
A great opportunity to add an approximately 1910 Elgin B.W. Raymond Grade 372, 19-jewel, 16-size American railroad-era pocket watch to a collection.
Combined shipping is available with other pocket watches. We currently have both running and non-running pocket watches up for auction, so please check our other listings.