Expert: Melvin Mills - 3/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I having trouble finding info on my grandfather's watch.  It's an Illinois Autocrat, movement # 4705883, case number is 7950082.  17 jewel, double roller, etc.  Is there any way to tell the date of manufacture?  It's in perfect condition.

ANSWER: Paul,

It was made in 1925, based on the serial number.

Kind regards,

Melvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Another thought came......   is there any way to tell an approximate value?  I had it serviced a week ago and he said it was in excellent condition with little to no wear on the case and movement was perfect.  It's an autocrat, 17 jewel, 14K white gold case.  

I've seen prices on the web.......from $200 up to $700.  I know probably not possible to estimate without seeing it.

Thank you for your prompt reply...at least I know the date.

Answer
Paul,

Honestly, I would have told you to look on the internet to see
what they were selling for.  You have already done that.  If it is in
excellent condition, it would be toward the high end of that range.

There really is no magic to telling market value.  Market value is what people are willing to buy it at.  That range is as accurate as you can get without actually selling the watch.

Kind regards,

Melvin