Expert: Melvin Mills - 11/3/2008

Question
I recently acquired a pocket watch that belonged to my great grandfather (at least). This piece is silver and very heavy.On the face of the watch the print R W & Co. appears with Waltham printed underneath. Both lines are above 12 o'clock. There are "doors" for both the front and the back that open. On the back of the watch the print Broadway with Waltham, Mass. and a serial number appear. I am wondering where this watch originated from? I would also like to restore it to working condition. Any suggestions? Thank you very much for your time and sharing your knowledge.


Answer
Ms. Leanna,

The watch was made by the Waltham Watch Company.  They were one of the most prominent American watchmakers of their day. As a matter of fact, I just bought one of their watches that was made in 1907. It still runs. At any rate, the RW & Co. was a jeweler that instructed Waltham to put its name on the watch. I was very common years ago.

A couple of things to consider with getting it restored. Parts are not made for this watch anymore. Getting them will not be a problem but it will take some time.
If you have somebody near you to look at it, take it to them and ask them to give you an estimate. You should be able to get an estimate for somewhere between $25 and $50.
(Some places will give you the estimate for free).
It is hard to say how much it will cost because we don't know how much work needs to be done. That said, before parts are considered, it will most likely cost you somewhere between $100 and $150. Parts will be extra.

If you don't have anybody near you that can handle it, feel free to send me the watch.
I only charge $25 for the estimate and that includes the return shipping if you choose not to have the work done. If you choose to get the work done, that $25 is credited towards the repairs, which will be $150 plus parts.

Kind regards,

Melvin