Expert: Melvin Mills - 12/9/2010

Question
Hello, Mr. Mills,

I've been interested in buying a pocket watch for some time, though never
really got around to actually buying one.  I've seen some really good looking
pocket watches on eBay for really cheap but I'm always suspicious of cheaply
priced watches.  What constitutes a good quality pocket watch?  Any well
known brand names?

Answer
Sean,

American pocket watch makers have been collectable for a long time.

There is always a market for them.

A few of the big names are:

Elgin

Waltham

Illinois

Hamilton

Hampden

There are plenty more.

When making a purchase, you want to consider the case and the movement.

The case- What is it made of?  Gold will cost the most but will have the greatest value.  If you get gold filled, make sure the gold has not worn through to the base metal.  You will see the brass under the gold.  It is not bad, just unsightly.

Movement-  Look at the jewel count.  The more jewels, the better quality.  23 jewels is top of the line.  Try to find something with at least 17 jewels.

Please feel free to ask any questions you have.

Kind regards,

Melvin
Millswatchrepair.com