Expert: Melvin Mills - 9/23/2010

Question
I have a pocket watch that was my grandfathers, maybe great grandfather & I don't know anything about it like if really old or not & all other supposed to be watch repair/collectors tell me it's junk...I just don't think so when they can't tell me age or anything about it could you help please?...Thank you, in advance, Cathy
Inside it sats 15 jewels, #35968866 Face says Elgin Nat'l Watch Co., USA  Case says Inscripiont to grfa..top 40-5799 center **SCEPTER below #0445413 @ bottom ?10009RT & 12226RT

Answer
Ms. Cathy,

This watch, based on the serial number, was made in 1935.

15 jewels is a good movement, and will still keep time well enough for daily use.

Value is largely based on condition and because I have not seen it, I would not hazard a guess as to the value.  I can tell you that an Elgin 15 jewel watch is not junk.  That is not to say that it is worth hundreds and hundreds of dollars, either.  

There are two ways that you can determine value:

1. Use ebay.  Look at completed auctions for all the Elgin 15 jeweled movements.  That is the actual market value.  Take into account the condition of the watches compared to yours.

2.  Use a book from Cooksey Shugart, "The Complete Price Guide to Watches".  That is what most horologists use to determine value.

Kind regards,

Melvin