The Learning Center
Pocket Watch Basics
Perfect for beginners! Learn the names of the visible parts of a watch, how to identify it, how to wind and set it, when to wind it, and most importantly - what not to do.
All About Dials
Find out what dials were made of, who did the lettering, how they were mounted, who Louis Ferguson and Josiah Moorhouse were, and enjoy sections on private labels, fancy dials and some of the hand styles.
All About Jewels
Learn what jewels were made of, where they were mounted, why they were used, what they did for accuracy, and browse an entire section devoted to all the jewel counts of American pocket watches.
Accuracy and Timing
Curious if your century-old antique timepiece can pace your phone? Learn about the evils of magnetism, who froze their watches in ice to demonstrate their accuracy, what positions are, who didn't use mean-time screws, and what you can reasonably expect from an old watch.
What To Avoid
Scroll though over eighty photos showing all of the ways that tinkerers can ruin an antique watch, including Superglue, their favorite "fix".
What To Look For
Want to know just how to build an impressive collection? Learn some tips on where to look for quality examples, who and what to stay away from, and why non-running watches are sometimes better.
Company Histories
Learn about the triumphs and failures of over seventy American watch companies, who made the most and the least, which ones survived the World Wars and the Depression, and the men who made it all happen.
Pocket Watches Advanced
Some more complex aspects - who invented the hairspring overcoil, where the Maltese Cross was used, the difference between single and double roller, what a hanging barrel is, and the kinds of escapements.
Restoration Highlights
One of Illinois's rarest watches was the 23-jewel Washington Lafayette. Only 190 were ever made.