What Do those Words on My Watch Mean?
For many novice collectors and enthusiasts of European-made pocket watches, the plethora of foreign terms inscribed on the dust cover or movement can be quite perplexing. These inscriptions, often in languages like French, are not only foreign but also highly...
What is a “Fusee” Pocket Watch ?
The evolution of timekeeping devices has a fascinating history, transitioning from the cumbersome weight-driven clocks to the more portable and intricate pocket watches. Early clocks relied on heavy weights and gravity, which limited their portability and...
A Brief History of Timekeeping
Throughout history, the methods and importance of timekeeping have evolved dramatically, reflecting the changing needs and technological advancements of human societies. In the earliest agrarian cultures, the division of time was as simple as day and night,...
How Old Is My Watch?
Determining the age of a watch, especially older pocket watches, can be a complex task fraught with challenges. For many vintage European watches, pinpointing the exact production date is often an elusive endeavor due to the lack of detailed records and the...
Most Common American Watch Companies
The landscape of American watchmaking is rich and varied, with several companies standing out for their historical significance and contributions to the industry. This article delves into the most common American watch companies, tracing their origins,...
Asking the “Experts” for Information about Your Watch
Hardly a day goes by that I don’t get e-mail from somebody wanting my help in identifying an old pocket watch that they just bought or inherited. Often the person includes a ton of detail about the watch, but at the same time fails to give me the information I...
Antique Pocket Watches: “Real” Silver vs. Fake
Antique pocket watches, particularly those crafted from "real" silver, hold a timeless allure that captivates collectors and horology enthusiasts alike. These exquisite timepieces, often intricately designed and meticulously engineered, serve as tangible remnants...
How to know if the pocket watch is Gold or just Gold-Filled?
Determining whether a pocket watch is made of solid gold or merely gold-filled can be a challenging yet essential task for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Understanding the distinction is crucial, as it significantly impacts the watch's value and...
Railroad Antique Pocket Watches
Railroad antique pocket watches represent a fascinating chapter in the history of American watchmaking, embodying both technological innovation and historical significance. These timepieces were born out of necessity, as the railroads demanded unparalleled...
What Does “Adjusted” Mean?
In the world of horology, the term "adjusted" on pocket watches signifies a meticulous calibration process designed to ensure timekeeping accuracy across various conditions. This article delves into the specifics of what "adjusted" means, particularly in...
What Are Watch “Jewels”?
Understanding the intricacies of watch movements reveals the critical role played by watch jewels, tiny components that significantly enhance the longevity and performance of timepieces. A watch movement is a complex assembly of gears, or "wheels," held together...
What Size Is My Antique Pocket Watch?
Determining the size of an antique pocket watch can be a nuanced task, especially for collectors who are keen on identifying the precise measurements of their timepieces. When a collector refers to an American watch’s “size,” they are generally talking...