[Wrascal]

In 2000 my father passed this pocket watch on to me (inoperative then) - it was his grandfathers; Great gramps was a train conductor. I put it away and forgot about it.

Today I took it out for pics and when I unscrewed the back case I noticed it said it was adjusted to 5 positions - implying to me it wasn't just a cheap piece of junk.

I believe the face says Illinois Watch Co. while the back case is so pocket worn my old eyes I can't read it. Inside it has the words A Lurcoln? - Springfield Hill? and the number 2080457 So here are my pics:

 

[AtomicTom]

Oh neat Wrascal ! 😲🤯

What it is I think is pure awesome to tell the truth. 😎😀

Illinous Watch Company was one of the premiere pocket watch makers sir,
and began their watch making art back in 1870. Creating countless incredible
watches like this one. And even though I don't know the exact model, you
can tell that this is not your ordinary every day pocket watch. Yowza, it is
stunning inside and out !!

Found a couple links you might like sir:


Illinois Watch Company


Antique Illinois Pocket Watches | Collectors Weekly

 

[Wrascal]

I posted this same info elsewhere and have already had several helpful responses.

Despite appearances it says A Lincoln (not Lurcoln)
and has an estimated birth of 1908.

 

[AranaWhite]

That's beautiful, blued hands, double sunk porcelain face, hand painting....a lost art. The movement looks like a tank and it's proudly revealing craftsmanship in all that fine detailing. I marvel at the things men have crafted without our technology. The red markings always liven things up functionally; it's like the tool watch of its time, not the fine tuxedo lines of roman numerals -all black, or a metal dial. Their IWC logo (not International...) is the bomb, no tweakers onsite that day. The million-dollar question Wratskul my friend, how does it run???

 

[Wrascal]

She doesn't run (winder locked up?). I received it that way when I put her away, mostly forgotten for the past 23 years. Now that I see everyone loves her I'll likely have it looked over and determine if I want to put $ into her.

Maybe get me a zoot-suit and a pocket chain, then go-stepping.

 

[AtomicTom]

I’m picturing that now Wrascal. 😎😀 ..Look out ! 🕺

 

[Wrascal]

As Gomer Pyle would exclaim:
SURPRISE, SURPRISE SURPRISE.

A few min. ago I pulled this old gal out and removed the rear access cover. I gently tried spinning the wheel - nothing, but when I touched its axle it started spinning.

I've now reset the time and will observe.

 

[AtomicTom]

That is a surprise Wrascal, but also an example of how great things were
made years ago too I think. 😀 It goes to that old adage, ‘they don’t
make em like that anymore right?! 😉

All I know is that I am ecstatic for you ! ..Thanks so so much for the update !!!

 

[Wrascal]

5.5 hours later and she's still running (but losing time); looks like a loss of 2 sec/ hr.
Now I'm hoping a cheap clean & oil will get her back in tip top shape.

 

[AranaWhite]

She doesn't run (winder locked up?). I received it that way when I put her away, mostly forgotten for the past 23 years. Now that I see everyone loves her I'll likely have it looked over and determine if I want to put $ into her.

Maybe get me a zoot-suit and a pocket chain, then go-stepping.
View attachment 146447

I’d like to have this in my closet for occasions.

You could pimp this on the regular, but you’d have to sport the right watch.

 

[Wrascal]

So sorry, I already have a hold on it for
Valentines Day.

 

[AranaWhite]

So sorry, I already have a hold on it for
Valentines Day.

My wife'll be disappointed

 

[tmoore]

Illinois Pocket Watch: Serial Number 2080457 (Grade A. Lincoln)

Serial lookups, info, specs, and value for American antique pocket watches covering manufacturers like Elgin, Illinois, Waltham, and Hamilton

pocketwatchdatabase.com

Some interesting info

 

[tmoore]

I have one of these from my dad. Not sure where he got it.

South Bend Pocket Watch: Serial Number 158737 (Grade Unknown)

Serial lookups, info, specs, and value for American antique pocket watches covering manufacturers like Elgin, Illinois, Waltham, and Hamilton

pocketwatchdatabase.com

 

[Wrascal]

Thats an equally good looking find.

I'm not sure if its OK to publically recommend another watch site but - I found a knowledgable, helpful Vintage Pocket watch forum. They quickly started filling in the blanks on mine. I can attempt to private mail you the link if interested.

 

[Wrascal]

Now Updating about MY pocket watch:

Today I visited my local watchmaker for an assessment. He said it was a very good mechanism but placed in a working mans case. He eyeballed it and twiddled a few things then gave me this good news - he can take care of it.

Allow between 4-6 weeks (if it needs parts) which it may as the winder is not quite correct. His estimate $125- $150; he will advise if anything alarming turns up.

Additionally he has a vintage leather pocket watch case and authentic chains from that time period available.

 

[AtomicTom]

Outstanding news there Wrascal !

You have to be pleased as punch to here all that, and the pricing
of everything sounds incredibly reasonable too I have to say. 🥇
Especially since he is going to have the watch for so long.

I really appreciate you keeping us up to date on everything. Thanks
an absolute ton sir !!!

 

[AranaWhite]

That price sounds good. I think it's well worth it to have it working. As much as you'll use it, If it's done right it won't need to be serviced again. You should treat that baby to a pouch & chain ..

There're dozens, if not hundreds of watch fourms out here. I can think of some vintage heavy, cool sites. If you dig vintahge there're some solid gear heads here. Those vintage focused sites are loaded with guys that've been into it for ages, tons of knowledge and experience, expertise; pocket watches fit right in too.

 

[Wrascal]

So has been my experience on this particular vintage site. At least two of the contributors are watch makers (possible now retired) one specialized in the Illinois Watch brand.

It was their excitement over my watch that led me to consider having it professionally looked at; and after talking to my local watchmaker it's a no brainer; Return her to her former Glory.

Case and chain will follow its return, then possibly a zoot suit.

 

[AranaWhite]

It was their excitement over my watch…
Return her to her former Glory

😎