Expert: Melvin Mills - 2/11/2011

Question
I've received an old Illinois gold pocket watch that has been handed down in my family. I'm guessing that it is from the early 1900's. How do I open the back to see the serial number? It is working and in good condition. I'm trying to find out what it is worth.

Answer
Renee,

There are 2 methods:

1.  There will be a lip on the edge of the case.  You slip a sharp knife under it and lift up.
   The lip is small so look very closely.
   If this is a hunters case, which means that it has the lid covering the front as well, it    
   will have the lip.


2.  If there is no lip, the case back will screw off, like the lid of a jar.
   

    Either one, GO SLOW.

If you need more detail, please write.

Kind regards,

Melvin
millswatchrepair.com