Expert: Melvin Mills - 7/16/2008

Question
Hi,
We bought an old Illinois pocket watch at a yard sale.  It's yellow gold in color and the back has a band of carved flowers and a shield.  It is missing the second hand and crystal.   We'd like to open it up to find out more about the model, quality of gold, etc but can't figure out how to open it.  Can you tell us how to do this?

Answer
Ms. Nancy,

the cover screws off, like a jar.  take the watch in one hand and turn the back off (lefty loosy, righty tighty).  Turn it counter clockwise.

It may be difficult if it is old and there is dirt in it.  You may be able to put some light oil on the crease where the back meets the case.  You will still need to get it started a little before that will help.

Check around to make sure the case is not bent.  If it is bent, You will have a real problem getting it off. You might be out of luck.

Kind regards,

Melvin