#3 • Waltham “Vanguard” 23-Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch

Part of Jewelry and Pocket Watch Online Auction (timed auction by Linkous Auction Group)

High bid $130.00

Status: Sold

Offered here is an impressive Waltham “Vanguard” 23-jewel railroad-grade pocket watch, manufactured by the American Waltham Watch Company of Waltham, Massachusetts. This high-grade timepiece features a bold white enamel dial with black Arabic numerals, red 5-minute markers, and a recessed subsidiary seconds dial at six o’clock. The blued-steel spade hands contrast elegantly against the crisp dial. A small hairline near the 2-hour marker is visible but does not detract from its handsome presentation. The watch houses Waltham’s celebrated “Vanguard” movement, serial number 20314947, dating to approximately 1901. This 16-size, 23-jewel, lever-set movement is adjusted to five positions for railroad service and marked “Vanguard, Waltham, Mass.” The movement displays exquisite nickel damaskeening and jeweled settings, along with fine gold inlay engraving. It is encased in a sturdy Illinois Watch Case Co. “Hercules” nickel-silver case, serial number 2275407, made in Elgin, Illinois, U.S.A. The case retains a polished finish with light wear and faint surface scratches consistent with age and use. The case interior is clearly stamped with the Hercules logo and matching serial. Not currently in working condition.