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Clocks, Watches/Ladies Elgin pocket watch

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Expert: - 4/3/2009


Question

Question
I have an ELGIN NATL WATCH CO USA POCKET WATCH - 11723864. The case is STAR WATCH CASE CO - 6892663. The case also says GUARANTEED 20 YEARS (J BOSS). Could you tell me when this watch was made and any other information based on the information I have given you?

Answer
Ms. Donna,

Case companies did not keep records of manufacture like the watch (movement) companies.

I can tell you that the "GUARANTEED 20 YEARS" means that the watch is gold filled.  Guaranteed not to wear through to the base metal for 20 years.  

In January of 1924, companies stopped stamping the cases with the guarantee, so we know your case has to have been produced prior to that date.

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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