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

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

High bid $150.00

Status: Sold

Presented is an exceptional 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 indicators, and a recessed subsidiary seconds dial at six o’clock. Elegant blued-steel spade hands complete its classic railroad-era design. A small chip is visible at the outer edge near 1 o’clock, with a faint hairline from 11 to 2, yet the dial remains bright and legible. The precision Vanguard movement, serial number 14049870, dates to approximately circa 1905, and is marked “Vanguard, Waltham, Mass., 23 Jewels, Adjusted” in gold script. It displays superb damascening, gold jewel settings, and features a safety barrel, micrometer regulator, and lever setting—all hallmarks of a true railroad-grade chronometer. The movement remains clean and well-preserved, showing the craftsmanship for which Waltham’s Vanguard line is celebrated. Housed in a beautifully engraved Keystone Watch Case Co. “J. Boss” 25-Year gold-filled case, serial number 5220069, the watch exhibits attractive scroll engraving on the rear cover and a smooth, polished finish. The interior is clearly stamped with the Keystone scales hallmark and case guarantee. Minor surface wear and light patina are consistent with age and careful handling. In working condition!