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Clocks, Watches/Phinney Walker vintage Mickey Mouse watch

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Expert: - 5/8/2009


Question

Phinney Walker Swiss m
I just refound a watch in my attic that was thrown in with my childhood coin collection. I originally found it (unearthed it actually) in a playground in Maryland in 1974 when I was nine years of age. I'm not so much curious about its worth as I am about it's rarity and collectibility because I have a young daughter to whom I'd like to pass it along.
After some quick google research, it appears the maker (Phinney Walker) dealt almost exclusively in clocks. 1. How does that apply to its rarity or collectibility if at all? 2. Was this watch originally intended to hang from a chain? 3. Why then is the clasp on the bottom? Mickey would appear to hang up side down. (those last two are my eight year old daughter's questions)
My research has turned up nothing at all about this particular piece but it seems vintage Mickey mouse time pieces are quite collectible. I've included a photo of the front and would have included the back as well but this forum seems to only allow for one photo.  The back is very impressive. It has it's own crystal to view the works which are colorful and jeweled.
Finally, it will turn in set mode but won't run today. It feels as if it's fully wound but won't tick. 4. Any suggestions as to its repair and care?

Answer
Howard,

I still have the Mickey Mouse pocketwatch that my parents bought me when I was just a young boy of about 5.  

Mickey Mouse memorabilia is collectible.  As to the actual value, you can take the watch to a local antique dealer to get a quote.  Another great resource is ebay.  Look at ebay for similar watches.  What they sell for is the actual market value.

Yes the watch originally hung from a chain.  The clasp is on the bottom because when it is worn around one's neck, and the watch is lifted to look at the time, the watch is right side up!

It sounds like it is not running because the movement needs to be cleaned.  The oil has probably long since dried out.

It will probably cost $80-$100 to get it cleaned.  Take it to a local jeweler/watchmaker and get a quote.  It can probably be brought back to new condition, as long as none of the parts are broken/damaged.  IF they are, the repair get expensive.

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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