Rare 18-size 17-jewel Model 6 Seth Thomas

The only reported Old Eagle with a jewel count greater than fifteen is full of contrasts. For one thing, it's nickel, whereas all of the other jewel counts were available in two-tone, and the pattern is identical to a standard 7-jewel Grade 36. The plate jewel settings are larger than those of any other model, the balance cap jewel is press-fit and not screwed down, and there is no marked jewel count. The lower center jewel was replaced with a bushing at some point and was done very well, so the count is now sixteen. The biggest tip-off may be the regulator, which is simple and there are no empty mounting holes for a gooseneck spring. The balance wheel does not have any meantime screws, and the hairspring is flat and not a Breguet. Finally, the SN places it near the end of the run, and usually the higher grades were introduced fairly early by the factory. Regardless, it's a very interesting example and a great carry watch with a white Roman dial and correct hands, and housed in a heavy Silverode case that was converted to display with NOS beveled glass crystals. Matching lanyard and display stand included.