American pocket watches in the 1850s were wound and set by a small key, which eventually fell by the wayside as lever-set stem-wound watches became the norm. In the late 1880s a new-fangled design emerged, allowing the hands to be set by popping up the crown. Do you trust this latest innovation enough to spend good money on it?
Shipped FREE anywhere in America.
5% discount if paying by check. Contact us for details.
Benjamin Wright Raymond was a businessman with a storied career who twice served the City of Chicago as its mayor, dabbled in real estate, founded several companies, and was elected president of the Fox River Railroad that connected Chicago to Wisconsin. Together with J C Adams, who was involved in several nascent watch factories, they established the National Watch Company in nearby Elgin, with Raymond as its first president. Naturally, the very first grade made by the factory bore his name, and the grade continued for decades. This superb example was considered high-grade in its day, with gold balance weights, the upgrade regulator, and a double-sunk dial. All fifteen jewels are original and still intact, which is remarkable, and it was just thoroughly restored for its next steward. Every piece of hardware is present and correct, and even the twin dust bands are still there. The full-signature dial is flawless behind blued fleur-de-lis hands and the nickel-silver case is ideal for daily carry with a display conversion, a sharp crown for easy winding, a tight bow, and new glass crystals. Matching lanyard and display stand included.
Manufacturer - Elgin
Serial Number - 3553941
Watch Size - 18
Watch Model - 5
Watch Grade - 77 (BWR)
Jewel Count - 15
Winding/Setting - Stem/Pendant
Production Year - 1889
Make sure to tether your watches to prevent drops and store them safely when you're not carrying one.
Prevent drops with an 11-inch Type I paracord lanyard, 1-inch split ring in your choice of nickel silver or bright brass, and a matching ferrule.
Reminiscent of a World War II ammunition case, this storage piece is perfect for your best six watches in any size. Inventory card included.
All photographs protected by copyright.
© 2007 - 2023 American Timekeeper v3.4.1
Sign up for the newsletter, which showcases exceptional variants, historical trivia, restoration projects, holiday sales and more.