I have an antique Elgin pocket watch. When I bought this watch it came with the original receipt. The receipt says it has seven Jewels and a movement number of 18744204. The receipt is dated for 1905 I believe, but there is a mark through the zero. I bought this Elgin watch at an estate auction in a box with other watches, so I don’t believe anyone knew of this watch. The watch is in fair to good condition with minor scratches here and there. The clock face, however, is in good condition. I haven’t worked on this watch any, but as of right now, it is not in working order. This Elgin watch has a separate seconds dial. The clock face is super specific because it has the minutes in between the hours.
Dimensions
The diameter of the watch is approximately 5 cm. The width of the watch is approximately 1 cm.
Acquired From:
Auction House
Open Face Elgin Pocket Watch with 1905 - 1915 Case: gold filled, 18 size, plain screw back. Dial: enamel, Arabic. Purchase certificate is included; # 18744204. I beleive the style is considered a Railroad pocket watch; designed for use by railroad workers. These watches were very accurate and had features that allowed railroad workers to keep track of time in different time zones. Currently nonfunctional movement: 21 jewel, nickel, full plate, gold lettering & jewel settings, adjusted. Jeweled pocket watches have a movement that is made with jewels. These jewels help to reduce friction and wear, which can extend the life of the watch. The value of an antique pocket watch depends on a number of factors, including the brand, the condition, and the rarity of the watch. However, in general, antique pocket watches can be worth a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. An non-functioning antique watch will have a lesser value. I would suggest taking you pocket watch to a regional jeweler for repair, or possible restoration. You will then be able to possibly meet the higher FMV estimate or even a possible $600 USD. Current auction sales results are lower than in previous years. Holding on to the watch and waiting for an increase in popularity in pocket watches is advisable.
