VERY RARE PRE–U.S. CIVIL WAR ERA
AMERICAN WATCH CO. (WALTHAM) – KEY WIND – SILVER HUNTER – 1859
A beautifully preserved and historically significant American Watch Company (Waltham) key-wound hunter pocket watch dating to November 1859 — just a year and a half before the outbreak of the U.S. Civil War. This is an early and elegant example from the formative years of American horology, showcasing Waltham’s exceptional workmanship from a period when they were setting the foundations for precision industrial watchmaking. Serviced by master horologist in good working order ready to enjoy!
An exceptional and rare pre–Civil War American Watch Co. hunter — combining Appleton Tracy & Co. casework, an early P.S. Bartlett movement, and impeccable condition throughout. Produced at a pivotal time in American history, this piece embodies the birth of industrial watchmaking in the United States, just as Waltham was pioneering mass precision production techniques that would revolutionise horology worldwide.
A fine and historically meaningful example of American watchmaking excellence from 1859, ideal for both the discerning collector and the connoisseur of early horological craftsmanship.
Original Dial:
Classic white enamel (porcelain) dial, signed “American Watch Co., Waltham, Mass.”
Features include:
• Bold black Roman numerals
• Refined blued steel spade hands
• Subsidiary seconds dial above 6 o’clock
The dial is in excellent original condition, with no chips or hairlines — an outstanding example for a watch of this age.
Original Case:
An A.T. & Co. (Appleton Tracy & Co.) signed case, crafted from solid coin silver (90% fine) and quadruple-hinged — a hallmark of high-quality construction.
The case remains in bright, clean condition, showing only light marks commensurate with age. Both the front and rear covers are richly decorated with a fine floral scroll pattern, centred by an unsigned cartouche suitable for personalisation if desired.
The front cover springs open slightly past 90° and closes securely with a satisfying latch. The rear and dust covers open smoothly on sound hinges, and the glass crystal is in very good condition.
• Case Serial No.: 13517
• Diameter: 54.4 mm
• Height: 77 mm (base to bow)
• Total Weight: 117 g (4 oz)
A charming and compact hunter-style case that captures mid-19th-century American elegance.
Original Movement:
High-quality P.S. Bartlett grade, 7-jewel movement, operating at 16,200 beats per hour.
This is a Key Wind and Key Set calibre, featuring a diamond endstone — a hallmark of refinement reserved for finer watches of the era.
• Serial No.: 26484
• Production Date: November 1859
The movement has been recently serviced and is running strongly and accurately.
A vintage winding key is included. The winding aperture is located in the dust cover (see photographs).
To wind the watch:
Insert the key through the dust cover aperture and wind gently until resistance is felt.
To set the hands:
Open the front bezel via the fingernail cut-out near 6 o’clock and use the key on the square centre arbor to adjust the hands.
Superb example of American horology at its best, 1859 not to be missed!!
* Please observe photographs carefully as they form part of the description*
Please note the AWC Waltham is over 100 years old. Shipping DHL insured registered post World wide. Buyer responsible for any taxes or duties due which may delay or hold up your shipment at destination port. (320)