Expert: Melvin Mills - 1/12/2009

Question
Hello,
I came across a very old watch and can't seem to find any info on it.  It looks like a pocket watch but has a wrist strap that looks like a black ribbon with 14kt fasteners.  I opened the back of the watch and saw that it is a Glycine and it has "3 Adj" and "15 Jewels" also on it.  The case is a "Referee" and has several numbers engraved in it.  Any info on this watch would help.
Thanks.

Answer
Jodi,

after World War I, it was very common to see watches that were converted from pocket watches into wristwatches. Later, watches were actually made as wristwatches.

Three adjustments means that the watch was turned in three different directions (the dial facing up, down, and vertically) to measure the accuracy in all three positions.

15 jewels means that there are 15 jewels in the movement. The more jewels, the less wear and tear from the metal rubbing on metal. Now, the staffs of the metal gears are rubbing against the jewel. It also cuts down on friction which improves accuracy.

A 15 jewel movement is still quite accurate, even based on today's standards.

Kind regards,

Melvin