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Clocks, Watches/Elgin Pocket Watch Case

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Expert: - 12/18/2008


Question
Hi Melvin,

I have an Elgin lady's pocket watch...

Serial # 2981402

I am presuming the case came from the Illinois Watch Case Company...
Serial # 29758
Trademark looks like a 3 leaf clover

I am wondering if there is anyway to reference the case serial number to a particular make-up of the case such as silveroid v gold etc... so that I can describe the case to a dealer over the phone to buy a watch chain with slide...

Thanks for your help!

Cheers,

Kelly

Answer
Kelly,

unfortunately, there is no such reference guide for watch cases.

If it were solid gold, it would have the markings for solid gold.

If it is gold filled, it will either state "gold filled", or have a number of years on it, such as "warrantee 25 years". Any time a number of years is referenced, you know it must be gold filled.

Kind regards,

Melvin  

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Melvin Mills

Expertise

I can answer questions regarding the repair of quartz watches and antique American pocket watches. I cannot give appraisals. My expertise is in watches, not clocks.

Experience

I am trained to repair quartz and mechanical watches, both modern and antique. My business focus is on quartz watches and antique pocket watches. I have been in this field for almost 5 years.

Organizations
I belong to the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC).

Education/Credentials
I am a Certified Master Horologist from the National Institute of Horology.

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